Clinical pharmacology of lubiprostone, a chloride channel activator in defecation disorders.
BACKGROUND
Lubiprostone, a prostaglandin E1 derivative, was approved in January 2006 for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) in adults and in April 2008 for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) in adult women.


OBJECTIVE
To review the pharmacology, efficacy and safety of lubiprostone and recommend its place in therapy for CIC and IBS-C.


METHODS
We conducted a literature search using PubMed/Medline (1966-April 2008) using the keywords lubiprostone, chronic constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome. Data provided by the manufacturer and the FDA were also reviewed.


CONCLUSIONS
Available literature for lubiprostone is mostly available in abstract data making it difficult to evaluate the clinical evidence. Although this medication shows promise, more information is needed to determine its place in therapy.
Ginzburg
Regina
R
St. John's University College of Pharmacy & Allied Health Professions, Queens, NY, USA. ginzburr@stjohns.edu
Ambizas
Emily M
EM
D000328:Adult; D000527:Alprostadil / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018118:Chloride Channels / Q000187:drug effects; D002908:Chronic Disease; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003248:Constipation / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D043183:Irritable Bowel Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000068238:Lubiprostone
D018118:Chloride Channels; D000068238:Lubiprostone; D000527:Alprostadil