Irritable Bowel Syndrome Medicine

Irritable bowel syndrome causes digestive problems, including abdominal pain, bloating, gas and constipation alternating with severe diarrhea. According to the Mayo Clinic, irritable bowel syndrome affects more women than men and usually begins during the early adult years. Medicines are primarily used for relieving constipation and diarrhea and the abdominal pain that are caused by irritable bowel syndrome.

Laxatives

• Over-the-counter or prescription laxatives may provide relief from constipation caused by irritable bowel syndrome, although they are not recommended for use in pregnant women.

Stool Softeners

• Stool softeners ease constipation by adding water and fat into the stool, which makes the stool less painful for the body to eliminate.

Anti-Diarrhea Medications

• Anti-diarrhea medications, such as Imodium, can help control diarrhea and abdominal cramping caused by irritable bowel syndrome.

Anti-depressants

• According to the Cleveland Clinic, people with irritable bowel syndrome may be prescribed anti-depressants to help with abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Anti-spasmodics

• Anticholinergic or anti-spasmodic medications that target the autonomic nervous system can treat reduce muscle spasms in the bowels.

Alosetron

• Alosetron is only used for IBS and is approved for use in women with severe diarrhea who have unsuccessfully been treated with other medications.

Lubiprostone

• According to the Mayo Clinic, lubiprostone is only approved for use in women. It treats constipation caused by IBS by increasing fluid in the stool.