Ardelyx Shares New Data on IBS-C Management Education Needs Across Healthcare

WALTHAM, Mass., June 28, 2024 – Ardelyx Inc. (Nasdaq: ARDX), a biopharmaceutical company committed to developing and marketing first-in-class medications to address significant unmet medical needs, unveiled new data pertaining to the educational needs of healthcare professionals managing irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). This information was shared via a poster presentation at the 2024 American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Annual Conference in Nashville, Tennessee.

The poster, titled "Educational Needs Related to Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) Management Across Disciplines: a Comparison of Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Physicians" (IND #37), presents findings from a survey involving 410 healthcare professionals (HCPs) from various disciplines. The survey aimed to identify practice differences and educational requirements in the diagnosis and management of IBS-C across different healthcare roles.

The results highlight significant differences between nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), and physicians. Key distinctions were observed in the diagnostic criteria and testing methods used for IBS-C, the inclination to refer patients to specialists, and the methods of assessing pain levels. Notably, gastroenterology HCPs showed a higher propensity to prescribe medications like linaclotide, plecanatide, or tenapanor for IBS-C patients who avoid social gatherings due to discomfort. Conversely, primary care physicians were more inclined to prescribe neuromodulators.

These insights underscore the necessity of tailoring educational programs to cater to the specific needs of diverse clinical specialties and roles within the healthcare system.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects approximately 12 million individuals in the United States. It is characterized by recurrent abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, leading to a significantly diminished quality of life, decreased productivity, and a substantial economic burden on society.

Ardelyx, founded with the goal of discovering, developing, and commercializing groundbreaking medications, has made significant strides in addressing unmet medical needs. The company has successfully brought two products to the U.S. market: IBSRELA® (tenapanor) and XPHOZAH® (tenapanor). Globally, Ardelyx has partnered with various companies for the development and commercialization of tenapanor. For instance, Kyowa Kirin markets PHOZEVEL® (tenapanor) for hyperphosphatemia in Japan, and a New Drug Application for tenapanor has been submitted in China through Fosun Pharma. In Canada, Knight Therapeutics is responsible for the commercialization of IBSRELA.

IBSRELA (tenapanor) is specifically indicated for the treatment of IBS-C in adults. However, it carries a significant safety warning regarding the risk of serious dehydration in pediatric patients. Consequently, IBSRELA is contraindicated for use in children under six years of age, and its safety and efficacy have not been established in individuals under 18 years old. Clinical trials have indicated that diarrhea is the most common adverse reaction, with severe diarrhea occurring in a small percentage of patients.

Ardelyx continues to focus on its mission, striving to provide innovative treatment options that address critical gaps in medical care. The company remains dedicated to improving patient outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for individuals afflicted by challenging medical conditions.

This new data regarding the educational needs of HCPs managing IBS-C is a testament to Ardelyx's commitment to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care through targeted educational initiatives. By understanding the unique requirements of different healthcare providers, Ardelyx aims to ensure that all patients receive the most effective and personalized care possible.