Clinical trial shows constipation drug can treat patients with chronic kidney disease (Lubiprostone)

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health issue worldwide. Many patients end up requiring regular dialysis to avoid kidney failure and stay alive. Despite the severity of the condition, there are currently no drugs available that improve kidney function. A research group has found a remarkable solution to treat patients with CKD by co-opting a drug typically used for constipation. This is the first time that this drug (lubiprostone) was shown to prevent the decline of renal function in patients with CKD. "We noticed that constipation is a symptom that often accompanies CKD, and decided to investigate this link...