IBS is a group of symptoms. Most medicines are aimed at only one symptom. If your IBS is interfering with your daily life, your doctor may suggest or prescribe a medicine based on your most troubling symptom. Effects will vary widely from person to person.
All medicines have possible side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about these including what to watch out for and what to do if side effects do occur.
Here are some examples of treatments that target certain symptoms:
Pain
Antispasmodics and some peppermint oils, taken before meals, may provide short-term reduction of abdominal pain after eating. However, the evidence for their effectiveness is weak.
Probiotics based on bifidobacteria and some combinations of probiotics may help reduce pain and bloating. Probiotics are live microorganisms that may be of benefit, but they must be taken in adequate amounts.
Read More About Treating Pain in IBS
Constipation
A soluble fiber supplement, such as psyllium may help with simple constipation. If fiber doesn’t help, talk to your doctor about a laxative. Neither helps with pain.
Diarrhea
Loperamide may help with simple diarrhea, as well as leakage or soiling. It does not help with pain.
Gas & Bloating
The most common ways to reduce the discomfort of gas are changing diet, taking medicines, and reducing the amount of air swallowed.
Read More About Diet for Controlling Gas & Bloating
Therapuetic Partnerships
Good communication – the physician-patient relationship – is an important part of effective long-term management of IBS and other chronic conditions.
