Tenapanor linked to reduced healthcare use in IBS-C patients

A retrospective analysis of 470 patients presented at the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) 2026 Annual Scientific Meeting indicates that tenapanor (Ibsrela) is associated with reduced gastrointestinal (GI) healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) in adults with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C).

According to the study, the median number of GI-related visits fell from 4.5 in the year prior to starting tenapanor to 3.0 in the year following initiation. Significant reductions were also observed in patients who had previously attempted at least one other IBS-C medication.

Unlike most existing IBS-C therapies that function as secretagogues, tenapanor acts as a locally acting inhibitor of sodium/hydrogen exchanger 3 (NHE3). Kyle Staller, MD, MPH, of Massachusetts General Hospital, described the drug as a ‘retainagogue’ because it reduces sodium absorption in the small intestine and colon, keeping water in the lumen to soften stool.