Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Ibsrela (tenapanor) and Motegrity (prucalopride) are both prescription medications used to treat constipation, but they work in different ways and are used for different types of constipation. Ibsrela (tenapanor) is for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) in adults and is taken twice a day before meals. It works by preventing sodium absorption in the gut, which increases water in the intestines to soften stool and works on the nerves in the gut to relieve stomach pain. The most common side effect is diarrhea. On the other hand, Motegrity is used for chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) in adults and is taken once daily. It works by stimulating serotonin receptors in the colon to promote muscle contractions and move stool through the digestive tract. Common side effects include headache, stomach pain, and nausea. Unlike Ibsrela, Motegrity can cause serious mood changes, including suicidal thoughts. Both medications are not recommended for children and have specific contraindications related to gut blockages.
Ibsrela (tenapanor)
Motegrity (prucalopride)
Ibsrela (tenapanor)
Motegrity (prucalopride)
Summary of Ibsrela vs. Motegrity
Summary for Sodium/hydrogen exchanger 3 (NHE3) inhibitor
Prescription only
Ibsrela (tenapanor) is used to treat adults with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). This medication belongs to the drug class called sodium/hydrogen exchanger 3 (NHE3) inhibitors. Ibsrela (tenapanor) is a tablet that's taken by mouth twice per day. There aren't many side effects, but the most common is diarrhea. Other side effects include bloating, gas, and dizziness.
Summary for Serotonin receptor agonist
Prescription only
Motegrity (prucalopride) is used to treat long-term constipation from an unknown cause in adults. It belongs to the drug class called serotonin-4 receptor agonists, which work by stimulating your gut to move. It's taken by mouth once a day and might have interactions with many medications. Motegrity (prucalopride) might be prescribed off-label for gastroparesis when other medications are not working well. The most common side effects are headache, stomach pain, and nausea.