NICE has recommended lubiprostone (Amitiza, Sucampo Pharma Europe) as a treatment option for chronic idiopathic constipation in adults.

This type of constipation is very common, affecting people over a prolonged period of time. The cause of chronic idiopathic constipation is often unknown. Intense abdominal pain is a common symptom and severe cases can affect a person’s physical and mental health.

Lubiprostone works differently to current treatments; it relieves symptoms by increasing the sliminess of the bowel lining. The new NICE guidance is for adults who have tried at least 2 laxatives at the highest tolerated recommended doses for at least 6 months, but who have not seen an improvement in their symptoms.

Professor Carole Longson, NICE Health Technology Evaluation Centre Director, said: “Chronic idiopathic constipation can be very distressing. Symptoms go beyond difficulty going to the lavatory and can be embarrassing for the person affected. It is a painful condition and those who suffer from it can experience a decreased quality of life.

“Lubiprostone offers those with chronic idiopathic constipation another option for the treatment of their condition. We are pleased to be able to recommend the drug in final guidance for use in the NHS.”

For more details, go to: https://www.nice.org.uk/News/Press-and-Media/nice-recommends-lubiprostone-to-treat-long-term-painful-constipation