Linaclotide (marketed under the trade name Linzess and Constella) is a peptide agonist of the guanylate cyclase 2C (GC-C). Once linaclotide and its active metabolite binds to GC-C, it has local effect on the luminal surface of the intestinal epithelium. Activation of GC-C by linaclotide results in the intra- and extracellular increase of cyclic guanosine monophosphate concentrations (cGMP). This elevation of cGMP levels stimulates the secretion of chloride and bicarbonate into the intestinal lumen via activation of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) ion channel. The metabolite of linaclotide MM-419447 (CCEYCCNPACTGC) contributes to the pharmacologic effects of linaclotide. Ultimately, linaclotide helps patients with IBS (especially with constipation) as GI transit is accelerated and the release of intestinal fluid is increased. In animal models, a decrease in visceral pain after administration of linaclotide may be observed. A decrease in the activity of pain-sensing nerves occurs as a result of an increase in extracellular cGMP. It was approved by the FDA in August 2012 for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) in adults.

Peginesatide (trade name Omontys, formerly Hematide), developed by Affymax and Takeda, is an erythropoietic agent, a functional analog of erythropoietin. It was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treatment of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in adult patients on dialysis. Peginesatide is a synthetic peptide, attached to polyethylene glycol ("PEGylated"). It mimics the structure of erythropoietin, the human glycoprotein which promotes red blood cell development. Peginesatide binds to and activates the human erythropoietin receptor and stimulates erythropoiesis in human red cell precursors in vitro.

Poliglusam (also commonly known as chitosan) is a linear polysaccharide composed of randomly distributed β-(1→4)-linked D-glucosamine and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. Commercial Poliglusam is derived from deacetylation of chitin contained in the shells of various sea crustaceans such as shrimps. Chitosan is easily prepared from the second most plentiful natural polymer on earth, so it is no surprise that it is being researched as a key component of so many different biomaterials. Several benefits of Poliglusam, such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, biorenewability, bioadhesivity, and nontoxicity have made them important natural polymers for pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Poliglusam and its derivatives are biocompatible in a wide range of applications, from hydrogels promoting angiogenesis to a bread supplement that ameliorates diabetes. Poliglusam is also used within some wound dressings to stop bleeding. In agriculture, chitosan is typically used as a natural seed treatment and plant growth enhancer, and as an ecologically friendly biopesticide substance that boosts the innate ability of plants to defend themselves against fungal infections. As a rich source of dietary fiber, chitosan is used as a food ingredient or additive.