I like to move it, move it: Constipated patients could soon get relief with vibrating pill

A pill that vibrates as it makes it way through the gut could help ease the lives—and bowel movements—of patients with chronic idiopathic constipation, according to clinical trial results presented in May at an annual global conference of gastrointestinal medicine professionals. The orally ingested capsule, which is designed to mechanically stimulate the colon, increased the likelihood of complete and spontaneous bowel movements by one a week for one treatment group and twice a week for a second group. The capsules also improved straining score, stool consistency and quality of life, according to an MDedge report. The study—a phase 3, multicentre, randomized, controlled trial which involved 312 patients aged 22 or older who had an average of between one and two-and-a-half spontaneous bowel movements per week—found no significant difference in bloating or relief medication use between treatment and placebo groups. The two treatment groups were given the treatment for eight weeks, with patients ingesting a capsule between 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.. In one treatment group, the capsule was activated at 6am and in the other group at about 2:00 p.m. Read: OTC myth busted! Docusate for mild constipation? Unlike traditional treatments for constipation—which are formulated to increase motility or secretion—the vibrating capsule takes a mechanical and technological approach to addressing chronic constipation. It’s part of a system that includes a multi-use “activation pod” that’s shaped like a half-egg. Before ingesting, the capsule is placed in the pod, which activates and loads it with operating instructions. Patients can record and monitor their progress on a mobile app. Because the capsule does not dissolve, it would be contraindicated for patients who have had gut surgeries or narrowing of the gut. The sponsoring company behind the capsule is Vibrant Gastro, Inc., which has offices in Nantucket, Mass., and in Israel. Vibrant expects approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration by the end of 2022. Read: Treating pediatric constipation: Here’s the poop

I like to move it, move it: Constipated patients could soon get relief with vibrating pill

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