Functional Constipation

Although constipation affects millions of people worldwide, it remains one of the least discussed health concerns due to social stigma, according to a press release from the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders.

Treatment with once-daily linaclotide was well-tolerated and resulted in significant improvement in spontaneous bowel movements and stool consistency vs. placebo among children with functional constipation, researchers reported.

The FDA has approved Linzess, the first therapy for pediatric functional constipation in patients aged 6 to 17 years, according to an agency release.

The FDA has granted priority review to a supplemental new drug application for Linzess for the treatment of functional constipation in patients aged 6 to17 years old, according to an Ironwood Pharmaceuticals press release.

AbbVie announced that it has submitted a supplemental new drug application for Linzess for the treatment of functional constipation in patients aged 6 to 17 years, according to a press release.

Ironwood Pharmaceuticals Inc. announced positive results from its phase 3 trial that evaluated Linzess for the treatment of pediatric patients with functional constipation, according to a company press release.

Reported cases of function constipation varied between countries; future research is needed to determine the underlying cause of geographical variability, according to a study published in The Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology.

Lubiprostone was not significantly more effective compared with placebo in children or adolescents with pediatric functional constipation; however, the safety profile was similar to that in adults, according to study results.

Children with celiac disease have a higher risk for irritable bowel syndrome and functional constipation even if they adhere to a gluten-free diet, according to study results.