Preference of Tegaserod vs. PEG 3350 in Patients With Constipation

A Randomized, Open-label, Pilot Crossover Study to Assess the Patient Preference of Tegaserod Versus Polyethylene Glycol 3350 in Patients With Constipation

To determine whether female patients have a preference for tegaserod of PEG 3350 relative to dosage form, convenience, ease of administration and taste

Inclusion Criteria:

• Females aged 18 to 64 years of age
• Patients with constipation as defined by the Rome II criteria

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients who have been previously been treated with tegaserod and/or PEG 3350
• Evidence of cathartic colon or a history of laxative abuse or laxative dependence
• History of fecal impaction which necessitated surgical intervention
• Patients with clinically significant abnormal TSH levels at screening
• Women who are pregnant or breast feeding

Other protocol-defined inclusion/exclusion criteria may apply