IBS Medication

IBS medication is generally used to cure IBS as well as other different IBS-related conditions.

1. When IBS pain is due to constipation, most of the doctors recommend over the counter medication such as laxatives. On the other hand, taking laxative can only lead you to diarrhea and it may also be habit forming which can be ineffective after prolonged and continued use.
2. When there is an accompanying diarrhea, a recommended over the counter IBS medication like Immodium or Kaopectate can be taken. It can lessen diarrhea, but the researchers found out that these do not relieve other symptoms such as IBS pain and bloating. Bloating and gas may be relieved when you take antacids, anti-gas products or a herbal remedy.
3. A recommended herbal remedy called aloe and slippery elm. These products containing aloe and slippery elm may help relieve constipation and these also often have anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve IBS pain.
4. Doctors also prescribe low doses of anti-depressants for IBS pain. But some of the newer anti-depressant can cause diarrhea like Paxil and Prozac. Also, all anti-depressants have side effects like dry mouth, blurred vision and headache which can render a person uncomfortable.
5. One of the IBS medication prescribed that is proven to be effective to relieve constipation and IBS pain is Zelnorm but it is only effective to women and does not work with men. But this is only recommended for a short term use for it can cause serious side effects.
6. In order to relieve IBS pain, many people look for an alternative like chiropractic or hypnotic therapies. These are more preferred because of the zero side effects compared to chemically composed medications.
7. Regular exercise is the most effective IBS medication. Exercise stimulates the production of endorphins in the brain which block pain and develop good mood.

IBS becomes a quite common diagnosis that affects any one out of five people at some point in their lives. The use of medication is often the immediate solution for this condition. IBS medication is generally safe for temporary use only because of the notable side effects.