American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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Which medication is FDA approved for treating irritable bowel syndrome with constipation?

Metoclopramide
Linaclotide
Bisacodyl
Senna

The correct answer is: Linaclotide

Linaclotide is FDA approved for treating irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). It is a guanylate cyclase-C agonist that works by increasing fluid secretion in the intestine and accelerating intestinal transit. This medication is specifically indicated for patients suffering from IBS-C, providing relief from symptoms such as abdominal pain and constipation. The other medications listed are not exclusively approved for IBS-C. Metoclopramide is primarily indicated for gastroesophageal reflux disease and delayed gastric emptying, but it does not specifically target the symptoms of IBS-C. Bisacodyl and Senna are stimulant laxatives used for general constipation relief but are not FDA approved for the treatment of IBS-C, which requires a more targeted therapy to address both abdominal pain and constipation associated with the syndrome. Thus, Linaclotide stands out as the specific treatment option intended for IBS-C, making it the appropriate choice in this context.