Main Findings

Plecanatide is an effective medication for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). 2 presents the results of two Phase 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials that demonstrate the efficacy and safety of plecanatide in patients with IBS-C.

Plecanatide has also been found to be a useful drug in the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation. 1 suggests that plecanatide is effective in improving symptoms in patients with constipation. Furthermore, it suggests that it has potential benefits in treating other gastrointestinal disorders like enteric pain, ulcerative colitis, and chemoprevention of colorectal cancer.

Reasons for Side Effects

The side effects of plecanatide are thought to be due to its action of promoting intestinal motility. 1 states that GC-C agonists, including plecanatide, can increase intestinal motility, potentially leading to diarrhea.

Common Side Effects

Diarrhea

The most common side effect of plecanatide is diarrhea. 1 reports that both plecanatide and linaclotide cause diarrhea in approximately 20% of patients. While plecanatide has the potential for lower rates of side effects, including diarrhea, compared to linaclotide, detailed analysis suggests that clinically, they are very similar. 1

Abdominal Symptoms

Plecanatide may cause abdominal symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and discomfort. 2

Managing Side Effects

Diarrhea

If you experience severe diarrhea, consult your doctor. They may adjust your dosage or prescribe an alternative medication. 1

Abdominal Symptoms

If you experience abdominal symptoms, consider making changes to your diet and lifestyle or consult your doctor for appropriate management. 2

Comparison Between Studies

Similarities

Both studies demonstrate that plecanatide is effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) or constipation. Both studies also indicate that plecanatide has the potential to cause side effects such as diarrhea.

Differences

2 presents the results of two Phase 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials that evaluated the efficacy and safety of plecanatide. On the other hand, 1 suggests that plecanatide is a useful drug for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation. It further explores the potential benefits of plecanatide in treating other gastrointestinal disorders like enteric pain, ulcerative colitis, and chemoprevention of colorectal cancer.

Real-Life Applications: Points to Consider

Plecanatide is a potential treatment for constipation, but it's crucial to be aware of the risk of side effects. If you experience any concerning side effects like diarrhea, consult your doctor for appropriate management. It's important to note that plecanatide may not be effective for all constipation patients. 1

Limitations of Current Research

Further research is needed to assess the long-term safety and effectiveness of plecanatide. 2 , 1

Future Directions for Research

In addition to research evaluating the long-term safety and efficacy of plecanatide, studies investigating the potential of plecanatide in treating other gastrointestinal disorders are also required. 1

Conclusion

Plecanatide holds potential as a treatment for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) or constipation. However, be aware of the risk of side effects like diarrhea and consult your doctor for appropriate management.