Efficacy of Linaclotide in Type II Diabetics With Chronic Constipation

The symptoms of chronic constipation are defined as infrequent bowel movements, hard stool, straining during defecation, bloating, abdominal discomfort, and sensation of incomplete evacuation.

Constipation has been reported as a common complication of diabetic neuropathy. A new medication, called linaclotide, was studied on many patients, and it is approved to be on a market for constipated patients. Unfortunately diabetics were not included in these previous studies; hence we designed the project which is going to address the possible benefit of this drug in diabetic population.

Inclusion criteria

• Type II diabetics.
• Functional Constipation defined by Rome III criteria are as follows: a. At least a 6 months history of constipation.

b. Less than three spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) per week. c. At least 25% of stools are lumpy or hard stools as it is described in Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS) less than score of 6.

d. Sensation of incomplete evacuation following at least 25% of bowel movements.

e. Straining on at least 25% of defecations. f. Sensation of anorectal obstruction/blockage for at least 25% of defecations.

Note: The above criteria are only applicable to spontaneous bowel movements. Patients who have no spontaneous bowel movements (bowel movements are preceded by laxative intake) are considered constipated and are eligible for this study.

• For patients' ≥ 50 years of age, normal colonic anatomy as documented by colonoscopy or double-contrast barium enema, performed within the previous 5 years, based on the American Gastroenterological Association guidelines.
• Patients with confirm diagnosis of Diabetic Autonomic Neuropathy based on results of ANX 3.0, real-time ANS monitoring system will be included in this investigation.
• Patients diagnosed with diabetic peripheral neuropathy and/or symptoms of functional gastroduodenal disorders, such as GERD and functional dyspepsia may participate in a study.

Exclusion criteria

• Pregnancy or lactation
• Subjects unwilling to practice adequate contraception throughout the period of screening through 14 days after study termination.
• Loose or watery stools reported in the absence of laxatives for >25% of BMs during the screening period by using Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS).
• Use of laxatives 3 days immediately prior to randomization (except fiber or bulking agents) and chronic laxative use during the trial.
• Patients diagnosed with severe, drug refractory gastroparesis (persistent daily vomiting), currently receiving parenteral feeding (N-G, J-G-Tubes), having history of frequent hospitalizations, or being implanted with gastric neurostimulation system.
• Use of any of the following drugs within 3 days prior randomization and during the trial: a. Prokinetic agents (domperidone, metoclopramide, erythromycin).

b. Medication containing opiates. c. Anti-spasmodic (e.g. Atropine, hyoscamine, scopolamine, glycopyrrolate).

• Hemoglobin A1c>8.2
• Use of illegal drugs.
• Regular consumption of more than 2 drinks of alcohol per day
• Chronic, more than 3/week use of NSAIDs.
• Patients with prolonged straining/push during BMs suggesting severe pelvic floor dysfunction.
• History or current diagnosis of diverticulitis and severe hemorrhoids.
• History of gastric resections, partial colon resection, history of rectocele.
• Existence of any major medical condition such as malignancy, severe renal and liver diseases, which in the decision of PI should be excluded from participation.