To help you in your search for symptom relief, it’s important to learn which treatments are supported by research. Don’t forget to get the go-ahead from your healthcare provider before trying any new treatment option.
This article discusses what OTC products are available for IBS symptoms and how they can help.
Popular OTC treatments include:
Herbal remedies: Peppermint oil, aloe vera, and slippery elm are among the top choices. Probiotics: “Friendly” bacteria may balance out “unfriendly” bacteria, reducing pain and severity of symptoms. Digestive enzymes: Beta-glucan fiber (from oats and barley) and inositol supplements may significantly reduce abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence. Vitamin D: A deficiency may be linked to IBS symptoms in some people.
Of these, in its 2021 guidelines, the American College of Gastroenterology only recommends peppermint oil and probiotics for treating IBS symptoms.
Magnesium: This mineral is a natural laxative that can relax intestinal muscles and attract water to soften the stool. Laxatives: Several types are available that work in different ways. Stool softeners: Designed for short-term use, they may get things moving again. Flaxseed: Studies show it relieves constipation and diarrhea, thanks to its fiber and anti-inflammatory compounds. Triphala: A combination of three fruits purported to be good for the gut, research suggests it can restore the epithelial lining of the digestive tract. Atrantil: A dietary supplement designed specifically for constipation-predominant IBS, limited studies suggest it may reduce bloating and constipation.
The ACG guidelines specifically recommend against the OTC laxative polyethylene glycol (PEG) and don’t mention any of the other treatments in this list.
Calcium: Calcium is slightly constipating, and many people with IBS swear by it. Discuss taking supplemental calcium with your healthcare provider, though, because you can get too much calcium. Imodium (loperamide): This drug is often easy to tolerate but can cause side effects including dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, and stomach cramps.
The ACG recommendations don’t mention calcium. It recommends against loperamide as a first-line treatment for IBS-D because it only addresses diarrhea and doesn’t improve other symptoms, as some prescription drugs do.
If your main symptom is constipation, stool softeners and laxatives are available over-the-counter. Supplements like Triphala and Atrantil are also thought to benefit constipation.
For diarrhea symptoms, check with your doctor. Calcium supplements may bring relief, but it’s important not to get too much calcium. Imodium (loperamide) can also help but can sometimes cause side effects like drowsiness and stomach cramps.
