It’s only been recent that people suffering with IBS have had a dedicated prescription drug like Viberzi to rely on for relief of their symptoms. But like any prescription med, it comes with side effects—many of which are just as bad as the condition itself! So if you’re looking for relief from your symptoms or proactive ways to prevent triggering IBS symptoms, many people prefer herbal/natural supplements or over-the-counter drugs to treat symptoms when they arise, focusing more on the dietary and behavioral aspects of managing your condition. Here are some ways to stay in control of your condition without resorting to prescription meds in your regimen.
Bismuth Subsalicylate(Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate, or generics) and
loperamide (Imodium) are easy-to-find OTC remedies for relief of diarrhea with IBS. Keep in mind, though these treat the occurrence of diarrhea, they won’t relieve other symptoms like swelling or belly belly pain. With anti-diarrheals, remember to take the lowest possible dose and for the shortest duration that you can, because these OTC meds can cause additional cramping, bloating and pressure, as well as dizziness and dry mouth. Extended use, or higher doses can also cause constipation.
Bile Acid Binders (BAB) may also help slow incidence and severity of diarrhea. Examples of BABs include colestipol (Colestid), cholestyramine (Prevalite), and colesevelam (Welchol), but keep in mind that for some users, BABs can cause bloating.
Simethicone (Mylicon, Gas-X) is an OTC treatment for gas relief, and most doctors consider these products safe for regular use.
If you’re taking non-prescription antacids like Rolaids or Tums, make sure that you’re keeping an eye on the magnesium, which can cause diarrhea while they neutralize excess acid.
Fiber supplements like psyllium (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel) help you stay in charge of IBS with constipation, but may not be suited for people managing IBS-D. If fiber isn’t right for your symptoms, you may want to try an osmotic laxative like Milk of Magnesia or polyethylene glycol.
There are several anticholinergic and antispasmodic medications on the market which can help slow IBS symptoms and flares, but currently, none are available without a prescription. However, there is scientific evidence supporting the use of peppermint oil as an herbal antispasmodic that can alleviate IBS symptoms.
Research shows that some cases of IBS demonstrate symptoms associated with an overabundance of yeast, which can be treated with antifungals, like Diflucan, Sporanox, and Nystatin, or the antibiotic Xifaxan. Natural antifungals include oregano, cinnamon, garlic, and clove supplements.
Probiotics and probiotic rich foods are additional ways to re-inoculate your gut with healthy bacteria, including Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus. There are a number of OTC probiotic supplements (Culturelle, Ultimate Flora, Probiotic Acidophilus) available at any drugstore or natural grocery, or you can add probiotics to your diet through kimchi, kombucha, miso, kefir, or sauerkraut.
