Salix Pharmaceuticals

This IBS Awareness Month, as part of “IBS Symptoms Aren’t Black & White: Living in the Gray,” Salix is partnering with the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) to amplify the real experiences of people living with IBS. Today, we are proud to feature Loretta’s inspiring story about living with IBS-D (Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Diarrhea). At first, Loretta ignored her #IBS symptoms. She was a junior in college, busy with schoolwork and friends, and didn’t know what was happening with her stomach – or what it meant. Before long, Loretta was impaired by completely unpredictable symptoms, and her condition was controlling every aspect of her life. She couldn’t even run to the grocery store without disruption. “It was so isolating. There were few things I could eat or drink without abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating. I was so desperate to find out what was wrong and was constantly looking for answers. It was exhausting.” Loretta has since found a supportive and understanding doctor who diagnosed her with IBS-D and helped her find management and treatment options that work for her. She still lives with unpredictable symptoms sometimes, but she finally feels like her life is back in her control. “I want people to understand that during this time, my life was on hold. I had to withdraw from classes at my university. I couldn’t go on an airplane or a car ride longer than two hours. I could barely go to the grocery store. It was even hard to drive because of the pressure it put on my abdomen while sitting. I couldn’t wear jeans, and I didn’t eat pizza for four years. I couldn’t work a job. I was in so much pain, watching my friends progress while I couldn’t.” Despite her experiences, Loretta looks back on her complex journey as a “blessing in disguise.” The suffering she endured and the lack of clarity she felt around her symptoms and diagnosis have since motivated her desire to improve care for others living with IBS. Now, Loretta is deeply involved in the IBS community and is even pursuing a career as a gastroenterologist. “When things aren’t going your way, it’s easy to be a negative person. But you can’t stop, you have to look for the positives and keep going. It felt like my pain would last forever. But now, I’m studying for the MCAT, and I eat pizza all the time. I’m not just the girl with IBS. I’m Loretta and I like cats and gardening and going to the beach.” #IBSSymptoms #LivingInTheGray

In honor of IBS Awareness Month, we at Salix are pleased to announce the launch of “IBS Symptoms Aren’t Black & White: Living in the Gray,” an authentic storytelling campaign that aims to address the complexities of living with irritable bowel syndrome (#IBS). We are partnering with the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD), to amplify real patient experiences on social media. Throughout the month of April, IBS Awareness Month, we will be sharing patient stories on our LinkedIn channel, highlighting the unique journeys of individuals living with IBS. By normalizing open and honest discussions about IBS, we hope to motivate patients to talk to their healthcare providers about the full range of their IBS symptoms, and ultimately help improve how IBS is perceived, diagnosed and treated. Stay tuned for patient stories on our channel throughout the month and read more about the campaign here: #IBSSymptoms #LivingInTheGray https://lnkd.in/eGsDCVtY

Salix will be attending the upcoming Pain Connect Conference, an event dedicated to advancing pain management and innovative treatment solutions. We're thrilled to connect with industry leaders and healthcare professionals who are focused on optimizing care for those dealing with pain. Looking forward to valuable discussions. See you there! #PainConnect2025

About 1 in 3 people in the US who are recommended to be tested for colorectal cancer have never been screened. Time to spread the word! If you’re 45 or older it's time talk to your healthcare provider about getting screened. Visit www.ColonPrepNow.com to learn more about a colonoscopy procedure.

We are thrilled to be attending the 5th Annual Liver Connect Conference! It's an incredible opportunity to connect with experts and innovators who are as passionate as we are about advancing research in the fight against liver disease.

We are proud to continue to uphold our commitment to support #GI patients. Salix is offering scholarships for a range of student types - undergrad, grad, & working and/or single parents - living with #GI disease. The application period ends May 5, 2025. Learn more. https://lnkd.in/e3a-qXYP

Did you know that colorectal cancer screening is recommended at age 45? Don’t put off screening. Talk to your healthcare provider and schedule your screening today! #ColorectalCancerAwareness

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month! Are you 45 years old or older? Have you considered getting screened for colorectal cancer? Talk to your healthcare provider and schedule your screening today. Learn more about the colonoscopy procedure: www.ColonPrepNow.com

#IWD2025 is a great opportunity for us to celebrate all the women who lead and inspire us every day. At Salix, we are striking the #AccelerateAction pose to show solidarity and help support gender equality, women's empowerment, and inclusivity.

We are looking forward to awarding 10 new scholarships through the Salix Gastrointestinal Health Scholars Awards to students living with #GI disease or disorders. The application period ends tomorrow! Don't miss your chance to apply. https://lnkd.in/e3a-qXYP