Choosing Medication for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder in which the nerves that usually work to control the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract are too active. As a result of this they end up causing the gastrointestinal tract to become sensitive to food, stool and gas.

Although there are literally hundreds of different symptoms associated with the condition, there are a few which are especially common including abdominal pain, stomach cramps, constipation, bloated stomach, gags, general feeling of being unwell, dizziness, sickness and backaches.

Medication for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

There are many options when it comes to the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome, but medication is by far one of the most effective choices. There are a number of different options when it comes to medication for irritable bowel syndrome, and it is important to realize that the effectiveness of medication for irritable bowel syndrome is going to vary from one person to another. This is why a bit of trial and error is often the best idea in order to find out what works for you here.

Antispasmodics are one of the most common types of medication for irritable bowel syndrome, and they are chiefly used to relieve pain and diarrhea. The major side effects of these medications are dry mouth and eyes, urinary retention and drowsiness. Antidiarrheals are also often recommended, and are used to help with diarrhea, urgency, and incontinence.

Tricyclic antidepressants are used for pain, diarrhea and other discomforts, while narcotic analgesics such as Vicodi, Percodan and Demerol are often recommended to help with pain and diarrhea. The common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, nausea, and the possibility of being habit-forming.

There are also a few newer antidepressants and other medications which are now available, most of which are used to relieve general pain and discomfort.

Before starting yourself on any medication for irritable bowel syndrome you need to discuss your condition with your doctor. They will do a proper assessment and work together with you to determine which particular method of treatment is going to be best suited to you. They will also discuss the possible side effects of a medication before starting you on it so you can be prepared and not be overly worried if you begin experiencing those side effects.

Irritable bowel syndrome can be a very frustrating and painful condition, but there are people out there who can help you and things you can do to effectively treat your condition.