Linaclotide in constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome and chronic idiopathic constipation: a profile of its use in the USA

Linaclotide (Linzess®) is a synthetic guanylate cyclase C agonist that acts locally in the gastrointestinal tract to increase intestinal fluid levels, increase colonic transit, and reduce peripheral pain. In adults with constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C) or chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC), once-daily oral linaclotide 290 µg (IBS-C), or 145 or 72 µg (CIC), significantly improved stool frequency and consistency, abdominal pain and bloating, and health-related quality-of-life. Linaclotide is generally well tolerated and, consistent with its therapeutic action, diarrhea is the most common adverse event. © 2017, Springer International Publishing AG.