Is a ghrelin receptor agonist an effective colokinetic in rats with diet-induced constipation?
Low-fiber diet in rats produces a constipation phenotype, characterized by reduced responsiveness of the colorectum to distension and to a behavioral stimulus of defecation, water avoidance. The effectiveness of capromorelin suggests that centrally penetrant ghrelin receptor stimulants may be effective in treating constipation.
These results highlight the value of assessing both pain and emotional status for individuals undergoing weight loss treatment since these may interfere recommendations to increase activity.