Library · Digestive & liver · Treatment of chronic constipation and IBS-C
Linaclotide
Linzess, Constella, MD-1100
14-amino-acid guanylate cyclase-C receptor agonist, FDA-approved (2012) for chronic idiopathic constipation and IBS with constipation in adults, later expanded to pediatric constipation (2023, ages 6–17) and pediatric IBS-C (2025, ages 7–17). Works locally in the gut to boost fluid secretion, speed transit, and ease IBS-related abdominal pain.
Research score 96/100. Reference only, not a dose.
Boxed warning: Risk of serious dehydration in pediatric patients; contraindicated in patients under 2 years of age.
- Gut Health
- Anti-inflammatory
- Pain Relief
- Healing
- Inflammation Resolution
- US status
- Prescription Only
- Approval
- FDA Approved (Adults 2012, Pediatrics 2023/2025) + EMA Approved
- Evidence
- Extensive Human Studies in adults. Recent Phase 2 and 3 trials have confirmed efficacy and safety in pediatric populations.
- Research score
- 96 / 100
- Indication
- Chronic Idiopathic Constipation, Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C), Pediatric Functional Constipation
- Origin
- USA
- Source category
- Digestive System
- Status group
- Approved / prescription
Mechanism
Activates guanylate cyclase-C receptors on intestinal cells, raising cGMP to activate the CFTR channel, driving chloride/bicarbonate secretion and water movement into the gut; elevated cGMP also reduces visceral pain signaling and dampens inflammatory cytokines.
Safety file
Good overall, but carries a boxed warning for pediatric use and commonly causes diarrhea.
- Diarrhea (can be severe)
- Abdominal pain
- Flatulence
- Bloating