Current and future pharmacotherapies for the management of constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome.

Abstract

Introduction: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder affecting 9-23% of the world's population, with a higher prevalence among women. IBS is a complex disorder influenced by psychosocial, physiological, and genetic factors, exacerbated by stress.

Areas covered: Research confirms that the most common subtype of IBS is IBS-C. Therefore, new therapies are being developed to speed up bowel movement and reduce constipation, with drugs such as linaclotide, plecanatide, lubiprostone, or tegaserod available to reduce IBS-C symptoms. In addition, patients' condition is improved by foods rich in fiber and low in FODMAP and the use of biotics.

Expert opinion: The topic is of great importance due to the growing number of patients suffering from IBS-C and its significant impact on quality of life. Current clinical trials of new therapeutic options are not too successful, and it seems that one of the plausible treatment options could be the multi-drug cocktail with some, or perhaps even all its ingredients emerging from drug re-purposing. Another important path that needs to be explored further in IBS-C patients is the adjustment of dietary habits and/or introduction of dietary or nutritional intervention.