Drugs and Treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

When you suffer from the pain of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, it can be discouraging to learn that the condition is a chronic one. But while IBS cannot currently be cured, there are drugs and other therapies which can lessen the severity of the symptoms. In particular, two drugs specifically designed for IBS have become available in recent years. There are also natural lifestyle changes you can make to keep IBS symptoms under control.

Drugs for IBS

For adults with severe diarrheic IBS, Alosetron (or Lotronex) can be prescribed by physicians who are enrolled in a special program with certain protocols. This drug blocks nerve impulses that cause spasms and diarrhea.

For patients with constipation-predominant IBS, Lubiprostone (or Amitiza) is a drug which increases fluids in the small intestine and eases difficult bowel movements. Patients take Amitiza twice twice daily, and some have complained of nausea, stomach pain, and loose stools.

Unfortunately, both of these medications are only approved for women’s use. Women make up about 60-65% of all IBS sufferers. More research is needed to come up with equivalent treatments for men.

Other Drugs

Many drugs that were not designed specifically to treat IBS can still bring relief from moderate to severe symptoms. These include anticholinergics, which relax the bowel and prevent it from spasming; antidepressants, which act as mild painkillers and mood elevators; and over-the-counter anti-diarrheals and laxatives. If your IBS is being triggered by some type of infection, your doctor might prescribe antibiotics as well.

If your doctor prescribes a drug regimen, never stop taking your medication or alter your dosage without your physician’s approval. You should also ask before taking over-the-counter medicines, as these may interfere with your other medications and make your symptoms worse.

Natural Remedies

There are natural ways to approach your IBS. Many people experience relief by eliminating certain foods and chemicals from their diet. Keep a food journal so that you can keep track of what you eat and drink, and how your symptoms were affected by it. Be especially wary of dairy products, caffeine, greasy or spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners.

Cutting back on gas-producing foods such as beans and broccoli can also be a help. A healthy amount of dietary fiber is important, though, so make sure you’re getting enough. Some IBS sufferers tolerate fiber supplements better than high-fiber foods. Try a low dose of Metamucil or Citrucel, accompanied by 64 ounces of water daily.

If stress is making your symptoms worse, start exercising daily. Your body will produce the feel-good chemical known as endorphin, and your stress level will naturally decrease.

Finally, don’t rule out counseling as an option. By learning to control your stress and strong emotions, you can decrease the severity of your IBS symptoms.