Plecanatide is a prescription medicine used in adults to treat chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). It is a type of medication known as a guanylate cyclase-C agonist, which works by increasing the secretion of fluids into the intestines, helping to keep stools soft and regular. Plecanatide can help relieve constipation symptoms like infrequent and hard stools, abdominal discomfort, and bloating.
Plecanatide is a medication used to treat chronic constipation, specifically chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) in adults. It goes by the brand name Trulance.
Here's a breakdown of how Plecanatide works:
- Type of drug: Laxative
- Mechanism of action: Plecanatide acts by mimicking a natural hormone called uroguanylin. Uroguanylin stimulates the secretion of fluids into the intestines, which softens stool and eases its passage. Plecanatide achieves this by increasing levels of a molecule called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the gut.
Some other details to know about Plecanatide:
- Dosage form: Comes in tablet form taken by mouth with water.
- Age restrictions: Not approved for children under 6 years old, and use in those between 6 and 18 years is discouraged.