Novel and emerging therapies for constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C) and Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC)

Details

Activity Description / Statement of Need:

In this online, self-learning activity:

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is among the most common disorders seen by primary care as well as gastroenterology specialty clinics. Patients with IBS usually present with chronic abdominal pain and altered bowel habit, in the absence of any other disease to cause these sorts of symptoms. While the precise pathophysiology is still an area of active investigation, it appears to include a neuro-enteric disconnect, leading to intestinal somato-visceral and motor dysfunction. Genetic, immune function, microbiome, psychological, and environmental factors may also predispose patients to develop of IBS. Its prevalence varies according to country and the criteria used to define it. In North America and Europe, it has a 10-15% prevalence, and it varies by country. In the U.S. and Canada, IBS symptoms are 1.5 to 2 times more prevalent among women. Women commonly report abdominal pain and constipation while men report diarrhea. The disorder is associated with annual healthcare expenditures of $20 billion and significant costs in lost work productivity and health-related quality-of-life. 

Target Audience:

The following HCPs: Gastroenterologists and primary care physicians; physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and pharmacists who practice in gastroenterology and internal medicine; and any other HCPs with an interest in or who clinically encounter patients with IBS-C.