Abstract

Use of lubiprostone in constipating disorders and its potential for opioid-induced bowel dysfunction

Author(s): Egilius LH Spierings

Lubiprostone is a novel medication, approved by the US FDA for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation in adults and constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome in adult women. It is an activator of the CIC-2 chloride channel, indirectly making more water available in the lumen of the gastrointestinal tract. Secondary stretching of the gastrointestinal wall possibly causes increased small- and large-bowel transit, making it beneficial in constipation-based conditions, not only chronic idiopathic constipation and constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, but also possibly opioid-induced bowel dysfunction. Lubiprostone has some preclinical data to support its use in this indication, confirmed by the preliminary efficacy and safety results of the two, very recently completed, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies.