FDA Approves Linzess to Treat Constipation, Irritable Bowel Conditions

The Food and Drug Administration Aug. 30 approved Linzess (linaclotide) to treat chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (ISBS-C) in adults.

Linzess, which is marketed by Ironwood Pharmaceuticals Inc., is a capsule taken once daily on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before the first meal of the day, FDA said. Linzess helps relieve constipation by helping bowel movements occur more often. In IBS-C, it also may help ease abdominal pain.

“No one medication works for all patients suffering from these gastrointestinal disorders,” said Victoria Kusiak, deputy director of the Office of Drug Evaluation III in ...