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Updated: Jun 22, 2025

Electroacupuncture Combined with Chinese Medicine Ironing Therapy for Functional Constipation
Published on: July 5, 2024
Modified Zhizhu Pill improves the loperamide-induced slow transit constipation via gut microbiota and
Xu-Long Shen1, Xiao-Ting Zhou2, Min Ren3
1Anorectal Department, Luzhou People's Hospital, Luzhou, 646099, China.
Background:
Slow-transmission constipation is a type of intractable constipation with unknown etiology and unclear pathogenesis.
Objective:
The intention of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect and possible mechanism of Modified Zhizhu Pills on loperamide-induced slow transit constipation.
Methods:
The effects of the Modified Zhizhu Pill were evaluated in a rat model of constipation induced by subcutaneous administration of loperamide. Fecal parameters (fecal count, fecal water content, and fecal hardness) were measured in constipated rats. The substance, target, and pathway basis of the Modified Zhizhu Pill on constipation was investigated using network pharmacology. The microflora in rats was determined. Serum neurotransmitters (acetylcholine and 5-hydroxytryptamine) were measured in rats and their relationship with the gut microbiota was assessed.
Results:
Modified Zhizhu Pill increased the number of bowel movements and fecal water content, and decreased fecal hardness and transit time. Network pharmacological analysis showed that Modified Zhizhu Pill can target multiple constipation-related targets and pathways through multiple potential active ingredients. Modified Zhizhu Pill alleviated loperamide-induced microbiota dysbiosis. Modified Zhizhu Pill increased serum 5-hydroxytryptamine and acetylcholine. The increase in serum 5-hydroxytryptamine and acetylcholine was associated with rat gut microbiota.
Conclusion:
These results suggest that Modified Zhizhu Pill may increase intestinal motility and ultimately relieve constipation by improving microecological dysbiosis and neurotransmission.
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