Best Medications for Treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Can It Be Completely Cured?

Have you noticed any changes in your usual bathroom habits? Constipation that you never experienced before, or diarrhea appearing from time to time? This might be due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can manifest as constipation, diarrhea, or even both, along with abdominal pain, especially if you’re going through stressful life situations. So, how can IBS be treated with its different symptoms? And what causes these symptoms in the first place?

What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

It is a complex disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain along with changes in bowel habits, including constipation, diarrhea, or a mixture of both. It is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders.

Types of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

IBS symptoms vary depending on the type. It is not a single condition but rather has different forms, including:

• IBS with constipation (IBS-C): On days when IBS occurs, more than ¼ of stools are hard or lumpy, while less than ¼ are loose or watery.
• IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D): On days when IBS occurs, more than ¼ of stools are loose or watery, while less than ¼ are hard and lumpy.
• Mixed IBS (IBS-M): On days when IBS occurs, more than ¼ of stools are loose or watery, and more than ¼ are hard and lumpy.

Some people may have one type initially and later experience another type. The subtype may change over time, and treatment is usually tailored to the type.

Symptoms of IBS in Females and Males

Abdominal pain is the most common symptom of IBS, and it is usually associated with bowel movement changes such as diarrhea, constipation, or both. Other IBS symptoms include:

• Bloating.
• Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation.
• Presence of white mucus in stool.

Women with IBS often experience worse symptoms during their menstrual periods.

Psychological Symptoms of IBS

IBS does not only affect the colon but may also impact mental health, manifesting as depression and anxiety. There is thought to be a genetic link between IBS and mood disorders. Additionally, changes in gut bacteria may contribute to mood disturbances.

What causes irritable bowel syndrome?

Doctors do not know the exact causes of IBS, but several factors may contribute to it. IBS is believed to stem mainly from problems in brain-gut interactions.

For example, in some people, food may move too slowly or too quickly through the digestive tract, leading to constipation or diarrhea.

Researchers also believe the following may play a role:

• Life stress.
• Certain psychological disorders, such as depression.
• Bacterial infections in the digestive tract.
• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), either an increase in numbers or changes in bacterial types.
• Food intolerance or sensitivity, as certain foods can trigger digestive symptoms in some people.

What Triggers IBS Symptoms?

IBS triggers vary from one person to another. However, common triggers include:

• High-FODMAP foods (carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine, such as fructose, lactose, and sugar alcohols), found in foods like wheat, onions, garlic, apples, berries, peaches, beets, cabbage, and more.
• Caffeine.
• Alcohol.
• Spicy or fatty foods.
• Stress.
• Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

How Is IBS Diagnosed?

IBS is diagnosed by ruling out other possible causes of gastrointestinal symptoms. Your doctor may ask about your symptoms, perform a physical abdominal exam, and order some tests to exclude other conditions, such as:

• Blood tests.
• Stool tests.
• Colonoscopy.

If the results are negative, IBS may be diagnosed.

Complications of IBS

IBS not only affects your daily life and mood but can also lead to complications if left untreated. It may increase the risk of hemorrhoids, while chronic diarrhea can raise the risk of dehydration.

Avoiding certain foods for a long period may also result in nutrient deficiencies or malnutrition.

Additionally, due to the recurrent and sometimes severe nature of IBS symptoms, some people may avoid social events or miss work because of the condition.

Irritable bowel syndrome treatment

Treating IBS requires paying attention to your diet and lifestyle habits, and in some cases, medications may be needed. Here are the main approaches:

1. Diet

Many people with IBS find that making dietary changes helps reduce symptoms. One common approach is following a low-FODMAP diet for several weeks, under medical supervision, before gradually reintroducing moderate- or high-FODMAP foods that often trigger IBS symptoms.

Other helpful dietary tips include:

• Eating meals regularly.
• Eating slowly and stopping when full.
• Limiting caffeinated drinks to no more than two cups per day.
• Reducing carbonated drinks and alcohol.
• Drinking at least 8 cups of water daily.

2. Psychological Therapy

Psychological therapy may reduce IBS flare-ups in some people. Options include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), gut-directed hypnotherapy, or relaxation techniques, under the supervision of a mental health professional.

3. Exercise

Regular physical activity increases the diversity and abundance of beneficial gut bacteria in IBS patients. Studies show that exercise helps relieve IBS symptoms and also reduces stress, which is closely linked to IBS.

4. Medications

Medications can help relieve IBS symptoms, but the right drug depends on your specific symptoms. Commonly prescribed medications include:

• Antispasmodics: Relax intestinal muscles and relieve abdominal cramps and pain.
• Bulk-forming laxatives: Help relieve IBS-related constipation.
• Antimotility drugs: Slow down intestinal movement to relieve diarrhea (e.g., loperamide, which reduces intestinal muscle contractions).
• Certain antidepressants: Although primarily used for depression, some may help relieve abdominal pain and cramping.

5. Probiotics

Your doctor may recommend probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria similar to the healthy ones naturally found in the gut. They may help reduce IBS symptoms.

Best IBS Medications from the Pharmacy

Here are some commonly prescribed medications for IBS:

1. Linzess 145 mcg

Linzess 145 mcg contains linaclotide, which helps treat constipation and IBS with constipation. It speeds up intestinal transit and regulates bowel movement. It may improve constipation symptoms within a week. Always consult your doctor before use.

2. Linzess 290 mcg

Linzess 290 mcg a higher dose that may be prescribed by doctors for certain cases of IBS with constipation.

3. Imodium 2 mg

Imodium 2 mg contains loperamide, an antidiarrheal that slows intestinal movement, making it effective for treating IBS with diarrhea under medical supervision.

4. Buscopan 10 mg

Buscopan 10 mg effective in relieving abdominal cramps associated with IBS by relaxing intestinal muscles. The doctor will determine the appropriate dose.

5. Agiolax granules

Agiolax granules a natural fiber-based laxative that promotes bowel movement and helps relieve IBS with constipation.

Can IBS Be Completely Cured?

There is currently no permanent cure for IBS. However, medications and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce symptoms, along with avoiding individual triggers.