Medical Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

There is no cure for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, it is essential for sufferers to use treatment in order to manage their symptoms and to prevent possible worsening. With the right treatment, most people with this digestive disease can lead a normal life. Various lifestyle changes should help you feel much better, but usually doctors recommend the use of medications as well. Different types of medicines are used to relieve the different symptoms.

Constipation which is one of the major symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome is typically treated with laxatives. Osmotic laxatives work by keeping and attracting additional fluid to the intestine. Stimulant laxatives stimulate the faster move of the stool through the intestine.

Other commonly prescribed medications for constipation include lubiprostone and polyethylene glycol. The former increases the amount of fluid in the intestine while the latter increases the amount of fluid in the stool. You may have to try several drugs before you find the one which works best for you.

In some cases, doctors may prescribe stool softeners and/or fiber supplements to help relieve constipation associated with irritable bowel syndrome. These work to make the stool softer and easier to pass. Generally, they work quite well, but some patients may experience abdominal bloating and discomfort if they take them for too long.

Different types of medications can be used for relieving diarrhea in patients with IBS. The antidiarrheal drugs work by slowing the movement of the intestines. Bile acid agents work by preventing bile acid from stimulating the colon. In this way, the passing of stools is slowed down.

If the abdominal cramping and pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome cause major discomfort and are persistent, doctors usually prescribe medications to provide relief. Antispasmodics help control the muscle spasm and provide considerable relief from pain. Some antidepressants have also been found to help relieve these symptoms and many doctors prescribe them if nothing else works.

A specific medication for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome has been made available. Alosetron hydrochloride is usually prescribed to women with IBS primarily for diarrhea, if nothing else has helped to relieve this symptom. The medication is known to work well. However, it may cause serious side effects such as severe constipation and reduction in the amount of blood in the colon.

Some patients with severe and persistent irritable bowel syndrome symptoms may develop anxiety and/or depression. These additional symptoms are typically treated with antidepressants and anti-anxiety agents. These usually work well, but may have serious side effects.