Clinical Report: Assessment of Linaclotide with PEG for Bowel Preparation

Overview

This meta-analysis evaluates the safety and efficacy of linaclotide combined with polyethylene glycol (PEG) for bowel preparation in constipated patients.

Background

Adequate bowel preparation is crucial for effective colonoscopy, yet many patients, particularly those with chronic constipation, struggle with standard PEG regimens. Inadequate cleansing can lead to missed diagnoses and increased healthcare costs.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Linaclotide-PEG significantly improved overall bowel preparation quality compared to PEG alone (MD=0.82).
• Segment-specific cleansing scores were also enhanced: left colon (MD=0.28), right colon (MD=0.34), and transverse colon (MD=0.35).
• Adverse reactions, particularly nausea and vomiting, were reduced in the linaclotide-PEG group.

Clinical Implications

The findings suggest that combining linaclotide with PEG may enhance bowel preparation in constipated patients, potentially leading to better colonoscopy outcomes. Clinicians should consider this combination to improve patient compliance and reduce adverse effects associated with traditional PEG regimens.

Conclusion

Linaclotide-PEG demonstrates improved efficacy and safety in bowel preparation compared to PEG alone.

Related Resources & Content

1. Frontiers in Medicine, 2026 -- Efficacy and safety of linaclotide plus polyethylene glycol for bowel preparation before colonoscopy in elderly Chinese patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
2. Springer, 2025 -- Evaluation of Linaclotide and Polyethylene Glycol Electrolyte Combination for Colonoscopy Preparation: A Network Meta-Analysis of 14 Randomized Controlled Trials
3. Springer, 2024 -- Assessment of the effectiveness of polyethylene glycol combined with varying doses of linaclotide in a split-dose bowel preparation for colonoscopy: a prospective randomized controlled trial
4. Springer, 2025 -- Techniques in Coloproctology — Evaluating the Effectiveness of Mannitol versus Polyethylene Glycol for Patients with Inadequate Bowel Preparation: A Randomized Controlled Trial
5. American Gastroenterological Association, 2025 -- Optimal bowel prep for quality colonoscopy outcomes
6. Frontiers | Efficacy safety of linaclotide combined with polyethylene glycol for bowel preparation in patients with constipation: a meta-analysis
7. Efficacy and safety of polyethylene glycol in combination with linaclotide versus polyethylene glycol alone for colonoscopy: a grade-assessed systematic review and meta-analysis
8. Optimal bowel prep for quality colonoscopy outcomes - American Gastroenterological Association
9. Effect of linaclotide combined with polyethylene glycol on bowel preparation before colonoscopy in patients with constipation
10. Efficacy of Polyethylene Glycol Electrolyte Powder Combined With Linaclotide for Colon Cleansing in Patients With Chronic Constipation Undergoing Colonoscopy: A Multicenter, Single-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial - PMC