[lizbeth]

Perhaps a new way to treat IBS-C on the horizon? I just read about this and want to share.Irritable Bowel Syndrome BlogBy Barbara Bradley Bolen, Ph.D., About.com Guide to Irritable Bowel SyndromeMy BioMy BlogMy ForumAdd to: iGoogleMy Yahoo!RSSSee More about:constipationibs prescription medicationslinaclotideibs-cLinaclotide Does Well in Constipation TrialTuesday November 10, 2009Linaclotide is a medication designed to treat chronic constipation, including IBS-C and CIC, that is currently undergoing testing as to its safety and effectiveness. The manufacturers of Linaclotide, Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Forest Laboratories, Inc. recently announced that the medication performed well in two Phase III clinical trials.Statistical analysis of the results of both studies indicated that Linaclotide achieved the desired outcome of a "complete spontaneous bowel movement (CSBM)". This refers to a bowel movement that occurs without the use of a laxative, enema or suppository. Other effects of the medication included a decrease in bloating and abdominal discomfort, and an increase in the average number of CSBMs.Linaclotide is a medication taken orally. It appears to work at the level of the gut and thus is not thought to act on the rest of the body, which usually translates to less side effects. It was designed to affect certain receptors within the lining of the intestine, resulting in an increase in fluid and faster transit time. The companies are currently enrolling patients into two more Phase III trials with results expected late next year. It is certainly good to know that medications are tested thoroughly before they are available to the public, but given the lack to medication options for IBS, the whole process seems maddenly slow. My two cents.Related Reading:Medicine for ConstipationSource:"Ironwood and Forest Announce Positive Linaclotide Results from Two Pivotal Phase 3 Trials in Patients with Chronic Constipation" Ironwood Pharmaceuticals Press Release. November 2, 2009.

 

[ABNormal]

Thanks for letting us know about this--I hope it really works!

 

[Mary5]

Like I told SpaceNeedle, who is in the clinical trials for the linaclotide and reports he is doing well, it is really good to hear that there MIGHT BE something out there that might help.I guess we have to wait until late next year ARRRRGGGGNever lose hope!