Possible side effects include blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness or dry mouth

Low dosages may be prescribed if IBS symptoms are present without depression.

Tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine, nortriptyline and desipramine, may relieve depression symptoms and inhibit neuron activity that controls the intestines.

This medication is typically safe but may cause constipation, dry mouth and blurred vision. It is also prescribed to treat motion sickness. Anticholinergic medications, such as dicyclomine, may be prescribed for bouts of diarrhea and can help relieve painful bowel spasms.Possible side effects include bloating, abdominal pain, gas or constipation. This medication works by making bowel movements more solid and less frequent.

Bile acid binders, such as cholestyramine, colestipol and colesevelam, may be prescribed if over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications do not ease symptoms.Anti-diarrheal medications, such as loperamide, can ease diarrhea symptoms by slowing down gastrointestinal muscle contractions that lead to diarrhea.This medication is not a good long-term option, as the bowels can become dependent on the stimulation to work properly. Stimulant laxatives, such as bisacodyl and sennosides, work by stimulating the intestines, which helps stool pass quickly.Saline laxatives, such as magnesium citrate or hydroxide, work in a similar manner to hyperosmotic laxatives.Hyperosmotic laxatives, such as polyethylene glycol, increase the amount of water in the intestines, keeping stool wet and aiding movement through the intestines.Stool softeners, such as docusate sodium, help the stool retain more water, resulting in softer bowel movements.These supplements increase the bulk in the stool, making it easier to pass. Fiber supplements or bulk-forming laxatives, such as psyllium, can help with constipation and should be taken with plenty of fluids.Whether over-the-counter or prescription, medication treatment options for irritable bowel syndrome should be discussed with a health care professional. Various over-the-counter and prescription medications are available to help manage the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. “Home remedies” are often suggested prior to medication treatment. A dietitian can help with diet changes that may relieve IBS symptoms. Treatment optionsīecause there is no cure for irritable bowel syndrome, treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms. It is uncommon for intestinal damage to occur with IBS however, symptoms may significantly alter one's lifestyle. Although bowel changes occur, the risk of colorectal cancer does not increase with IBS.

Irritable bowel syndrome is also known as spastic colitis, mucous colitis, irritable colon or spastic colon. It affects an estimated 10 to 15 percent of Americans. IBS causes stomach discomfort or pain, diarrhea or constipation, and changes in stool consistency (thin, hard, soft or liquid stools). Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a health condition in which the large intestine is affected by a simultaneously occurring group of intestinal symptoms.

Treatment for ibs