Overview and treatment of ibs with predominant constipation in women

Irritable bowel syndrome with predominant constipation (IBS-C) is a chronic disorder that primarily affects women. In 2020, the first clinical guideline by the American College of Gastroenterology for the treatment of IBS was published. A variety of nonpharmacologic recommendations for IBS-C include gut-directed psychotherapy, psyllium fiber, peppermint oil, and a diet low in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. Women with IBS-C have four FDA-approved prescription-treatment options including lubiprostone, linaclotide, plecanatide, and tegaserod. Selection of medication therapy may be guided by cost/insurance coverage, adverse-effect profile, and desired frequency of dosing.