Linaclotide

How it works

Mimics an E. coli diarrhea toxin at guanylate cyclase-C, a gut-wall receptor, so the bowel secretes water. For constipation.

What it's made of

14 amino acids tied by 3 sulfur bridges. It mimics the toxin some E. coli use to cause diarrhea, and two of the body's own hormones, guanylin and uroguanylin.

What it's for

Prescribed for

Irritable bowel with constipation in adults (in the US, from age 7). In the US, also chronic constipation in adults and functional constipation from age 2.