Linaclotide

Linaclotide is a potent and selective guanylate cyclase C agonist; developed for the treatment of constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C) and chronic constipation.

Linaclotide inhibits in vitro [125I]-STa binding to intestinal mucosal membranes from wt mice in a concentration-dependent manner. In contrast, [125I]-STa binding to these membranes from GC-C null mice is significantly decreased. After incubation in vitro in jejunal fluid for 30 min, linaclotide is completely degraded[1]. Linaclotide acts on guanylate cyclase-C receptors on the luminal membrane to increase chloride and bicarbonate secretions into the intestine and inhibit the absorption of sodium ions, thus increasing the secretion of water into the lumen and improving defecation; the drug is minimally absorbed into the systemic circulation[2].

Pharmacokinetic analysis shows very low oral bioavailability (0.10%). In intestinal secretion and transit models, linaclotide exhibits significant pharmacological effects in wt, but not in GC-C null mice: induction of increased fluid secretion into surgically ligated jejunal loops is accompanied by the secretion of elevated levels of cyclic guanosine-3’,5-monophosphate and accelerated gastrointestinal transit[1]. Linaclotide significantly increases weekly spontaneous bowel movements and complete spontaneous bowel movements (CSBMs) while reducing abdominal pain in patients with chronic constipation[2].

[1]. Bryant AP, et al. Linaclotide is a potent and selective guanylate cyclase C agonist that elicits pharmacological effects locally in the gastrointestinal tract. Life Sci. 2010 May 8;86(19-20):760-5. [2]. Love BL, et al. Linaclotide: a novel agent for chronic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2014 Jul 1;71(13):1081-91.