What medications are used to treat IBS?
If there is evidence for bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine by the breath test, then we prescribe Xifaxan for 10-14 days followed by Zelnorm at bedtime for long-term use. We often give 2 treatments to help repair the damage and reduce permeability problems associated with the bacterial overgrowth: zinc and a probiotic containing bifidobacteria. There are several classifications of medications that are prescribed for IBS. These medications work at different levels in the brain and body. Anti-cholinergic medications affect the vagal nerve and the vagal nerve endings on the muscles of the intestines. These medications are used to reduce the muscular activity of the intestines and are often the first line of medications to be prescribed. Anti-cholinergic medications can also be combined with a small amount of phenobarbital or Librium, which acts as a general anti-anxiety medication. When diarrhea and cramps are the primary symptoms anti-diarrhea medication such as Imodium and Lomo
No medicine can cure IBS, but there are a variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications that can ease particular IBS symptoms. Medication options include drugs that relax the bowel muscles, slow down or bulk up stool, change how the body senses pain, prevent bacteria from growing in the bowel or stimulate intestinal nerves.
