Renzapride: a new drug for the treatment of constipation in the irritable bowel syndrome

Renzapride is a novel drug currently under clinical evaluation for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Renzapride is a mixed 5-hydroxytryptamine type 4 (5-HT4) agonist and 5-HT3 receptor antagonist that has a stimulatory effect on gastrointestinal motility and transit, as established by in vivo and in vitro studies. Its therapeutic efficacy, tolerability and safety have been evaluated in diabetic gastroparesis in a single study, as well as in IBS in a few other studies. Phase II studies indicated potential beneficial effects on symptoms and bowel habits in patients with constipation-predominant IBS and mixed-type IBS. The outcome of Phase III studies is currently under evaluation.