Lubiprostone is used for the treatment of long-term constipation (chronic idiopathic constipation), opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in adults with chronic non-cancer pain and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS, a common disorder of the large intestine that causes abdominal pain, cramps, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation).
Lubiprostone belongs to a class of medications called laxatives. It activates proteins called chloride channels (ClC-2) in the intestine resulting in increased flow of fluids into the bowel and increased motility that facilitates easy passage of stools thereby relieving constipation and associated symptoms.