LINZESS works differently than laxatives1-3

LINZESS is a peptide that stimulates the guanylate cyclase (GC-C) receptor and is thought to work in 2 ways*

LINZESS reduced visceral hypersensitivity and increases GI motility

  • Activation of GC-C results in an increase in intracellular and extracellular concentrations of cGMP, which1:
    • Stimulates the secretion of chloride and bicarbonate into the intestinal lumen
    • Increases intestinal fluid and accelerates transit
  • Activation of GC-C results in an increase in intracellular and extracellular concentrations of cGMP, which1:
    • Stimulates the secretion of chloride and bicarbonate into the intestinal lumen
    • Increases intestinal fluid and accelerates transit

  • Visceral hypersensitivity is an enhanced responsiveness or perception within the intestine that can occur even in response to normal events3
  • Visceral hypersensitivity is an enhanced responsiveness or perception within the intestine that can occur even in response to normal events3

cGMP, cyclic guanosine monophosphate; GI, gastrointestinal.

*Based on nonclinical studies.

The clinical relevance of the effect on nerve fibers has not been established.1

LINZESS acts locally within the GI tract and has negligible systemic availability1