New Drug Approved for Women with IBS-C
The FDA recently approved a drug for women 18 years of age and
older for a condition called irritable bowel syndrome with constipation
(IBS-C). The drug is Amitiza (lubiprostone). Health officials indicate
that at the present, there are no other prescription drugs available in the
United States for this condition. The safety and efficacy of Amitiza was
evaluated in two major studies and involved individuals who were
experiencing at least mild abdominal pain or discomfort associated with
other IBS-C symptoms. Women in the study that got Amitiza reported
relief of IBS symptoms moderately or to a significant degree, more so
than those who took a placebo (fake drug) over a 12 week period of
study.
IBS-C is an intestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating,
cramping and constipation. Although these symptoms vary from
person to person, they can in some instances be disabling. Some health
experts believe IBS is caused by changes in the nerves that control the
muscles in the bowel. Since women are more likely than men to experience
this condition, some researchers believe that hormonal changes
may play a role.