Cisapride for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation.

Cisapride appears to be useful as therapy for chronic constipation that is not associated with underlying organic abnormalities or pregnancy and that is refractory to other treatments, such as increased dietary fiber intake or bulk laxatives. Dosages of cisapride that have demonstrated efficacy in chronic constipation range from 5 mg po tid to 20 mg po bid. Treatment for 8-12 weeks may be necessary for an optimal effect to occur. Further studies are needed to evaluate the most effective dosage regimen for the treatment of constipation and to compare the efficacy and cost-efficiency of cisapride with those of conventional therapy. Until these studies are completed, cisapride should not be recommended routinely for patients with constipation. However, it may be a viable option for patients with chronic idiopathic constipation that is refractory to conventional therapy.