Short bowel syndrome

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What is SBS?

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is a disorder that affects the ability of a person’s intestines to absorb enough nutrients and fluids, and may require parenteral support. It is commonly caused by the surgical removal of part of the intestine—most often the small intestine. The need to remove part of the intestine may be due to injury, birth defects, or disease (such as Crohn’s disease).

SBS symptoms

Some common symptoms of SBS include:

  • Diarrhea
  • Electrolyte disturbances (an imbalance of needed minerals in the body)
  • Dehydration
  • Malnutrition (when the body does not get the amount of nutrients it needs to stay healthy)

Living with SBS

Along with treatment and partnering with your healthcare provider, here are a few things you may do on your own to help manage SBS:

  • Keep your meals small and frequent
  • Don’t drink too much while you’re eating
  • Stay hydrated throughout the day
  • Avoid sugary foods
  • Take vitamin and mineral supplements (as directed by your healthcare provider)

The above information is not intended to be medical advice. For medical advice, always speak with your healthcare provider.

Finding support*

ShortBowelSyndrome.com from Takeda provides education and tips for people living with SBS. It also offers a healthcare provider discussion guide, information about advocacy groups, insightful videos from patients, and much more.

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) is a non-profit, volunteer-fueled organization dedicated to finding cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and improving the quality of life of patients and caregivers.

The Oley Foundation serves patients on home parenteral (IV) and enteral (tube-fed) nutrition. Their website contains a variety of medical and practical information such as troubleshooting guides, travel tips, networking and educational opportunities, as well as printable tools.

National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is a rare disease umbrella organization that provides advocacy, research, education, and patient services in the US. See how they help and find out how you can get involved.

International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) informs, assists, and supports people affected by gastrointestinal (GI) disorders.

United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) promotes quality of life for people with ostomies and continent diversions through information, support, advocacy, and collaboration.

*The above links are provided as a resource. This is not an endorsement, and Takeda has no control over the content of any website not owned by Takeda.

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Have questions about your eligibility? You must be enrolled in OnePath and have commercial insurance. Other terms and conditions apply. Call OnePath at 1-866-888-0660 Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM ET.

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Frequently asked questions

Call your OnePath Patient Support Manager (PSM) if you feel you need more training on administering your treatment. To connect with your PSM, call Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM ET, at 1-866-888-0660.

OnePath specialists are here to help answer questions about your condition and your Takeda treatment plan. Your Patient Support Manager (PSM) can connect you with one of these specialists. Call us Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM ET, at 1-866-888-0660. You should also speak with your healthcare provider if you have specific questions about your health.

If you’ll be traveling with your Takeda medication, your dedicated Patient Support Manager (PSM) can help you prepare. Call your PSM as early as possible, at least 2-3 weeks before your trip. Your PSM can:

  • Put you in touch with your specialty pharmacy to discuss your travel plans. Your SP can:
    • Work with you to have extra medication shipped to you before you travel
    • Have your medication shipped to your destination
    • Help locate a site of care if your treatment must be given to you by a trained healthcare provider

Below you’ll find more tips you may want to consider when planning to travel with your medication:

  • Tell your healthcare provider about your plans. Follow any instructions they may provide you
  • Make a list of hospitals along your travel route and near your destination. Be sure to include their contact information
  • Always keep your treatment and supplies with you (if applicable). This includes storing these items in your carry-on luggage. That way, you’ll be able to use your items at any time on the way to your destination. Also, they’ll be better protected against temperature changes, rough handling, or loss
  • Pack extra medication just in case you experience a travel delay
  • If you’ll be flying, call your airline before the trip. Ask if it would be possible to keep your medication refrigerated during your flight, if applicable
  • Call the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at least 72 hours before traveling. It can let you know what to expect at security checkpoints and if there are any special instructions you’ll need to follow. You can call the TSA toll-free at 1-866-289-9673 or visit them online here
  • When going through security, carry a copy of a travel letter describing your condition and the need for your medication
  • Always wear a medical ID bracelet or carry a medical ID card with you
  • Make sure to have all medication, supplies, and medical devices clearly labeled

If you have questions, speak with your Patient Support Manager (PSM). To connect with your PSM, call us Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM ET, at 1-866-888-0660.

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