Researchers say they have developed a vibrating capsule that could help treat constipation.
The capsule, which is taken orally, activates the digestive tract and helps waste removal. Researchers say the capsule could possibly replace people's need for laxatives.
"Despite the widespread use of medication to treat constipation, nearly 50 percent of patients are unsatisfied with the treatment either because of side effects, safety concerns about long-term use, or the fact that it simply doesn't work," Yishai Ron, MD, lead researcher for the study and director of Neurogastroenterology and Motility at Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center's Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, said in the press release.
Researchers tested the vibrating capsule on 26 patients with chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and constipation predominant irritable bowel syndrome (C-IBS). The patients were told to take the capsule twice a week. They were also asked about their bowel movements and use of laxatives every day. Prior to the study, the participants had to undergo a two-week laxative free period.
According to the results, the patients who took the capsule reported more natural bowel movements that occurred from two to four times a week. They also reported fewer constipation symptoms.
"Sometimes, drug therapies bring more issues than relief for these patients," Dr. Ron said. "The results of this study point to the potential for an alternative treatment that avoids the typical drug side effects, such as bloating and electrolyte imbalance, by imitating the body's natural physiology."
Researchers explain that the vibrating capsule is made with a small engine that vibrates 6 to 8 hours after it enters the body. The vibrations imitate the contractions in the intestines that help the waste pass through the digestive tract and out of the body.
The study, 'Vibrating Capsule for the Treatment of Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) and Constipation Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome (C-IBS) - Safety and Efficacy,' was presented at the Digestive Disease Week in Chicago, IL.
