Medication for Symptoms of Diverticulosis

Diverticulosis is the condition of having small, bulging pouches in the digestive track. The pouches most often occur in the colon or large intestine. It is not uncommon in people over 40 and becomes even more common with age. Many times diverticulosis has no symptoms, but if there are symptoms, diet changes and medication are needed.

Anti-Spasmodic Drugs

• Anti-spasmodic drugs are prescribed to help with symptoms of diverticulosis. They decrease pain brought on by muscle spasms.

Analgesics

• If anti-spasmodics do not work, or are not enough to alleviate the pain, analgesics are usually given. These can be over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen, or prescriptions such as codeine, depending on the severity of the pain.

Antiobiotics

• If the pouches in the digestive track that cause diverticulosis become infected, it becomes diverticulitis. This causes more severe pain and digestive problems. Antibiotics are prescribed for diverticulitis.

Supplements

• In addition to fiber, there are other supplements used for the symptoms of diverticulosis, such as glutamine, omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics.

Considerations

• Eating a high fiber diet--wheat, oat, bran, whole grain cereal, vegetables, fruit and legumes--can help ease the symptoms of diverticulosis. If symptoms suddenly increase in severity, consult a physician.