Lubiprostone: chronic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Lubiprostone is a bicyclic fatty acid metabolite and prostaglandin E1 analogue.
• It activates type-2 chloride channels in the intestinal epithelium.
• Lubiprostone acts locally with minimal systemic absorption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the structure, function, and pharmacokinetics of lubiprostone.
• To discuss the safety and efficacy of lubiprostone for chronic constipation and IBS-C.
• To provide an overview of chloride channel function in the GI tract.

Main Methods:

• Review of animal studies on gastrointestinal fluid secretion.
• Analysis of clinical trials in patients with chronic constipation.
• Evaluation of a multi-center study in patients with IBS-C.

Main Results:

• Lubiprostone increased gastrointestinal fluid secretion in animal models.
• Clinical studies demonstrated improved stool frequency, consistency, and reduced straining in chronic constipation.
• Lubiprostone (8 microg twice-daily) improved global and individual IBS symptoms in patients with IBS-C.

Conclusions:

• Lubiprostone is an effective treatment for chronic constipation and IBS-C.
• The medication is generally well-tolerated with rare serious adverse events.
• Common side effects include nausea, headache, and diarrhea.