There are several medications available for people with stomach and bowel problems. These medications are known as antidepressants, Pepto-Bismol, and Mast cell stabilizers. In addition to antidepressants, these medications include 5-ASAs and Pepto-Bismol. Learn about the best treatment options for your condition. Also, discover how to find a doctor for your symptoms.
Top 5 Medications for Stomach and Bowels
This article includes the top 5 stomach and bowel tablets which people can use for several gastrointestinal problems.
Antidepressants
The use of antidepressants for treating IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is a common approach. These medications are effective at controlling symptoms in a wide variety of people. Compared to placebo, antidepressants appear more effective than psychological therapies in reducing IBS symptoms. However, antidepressants do have some drawbacks. Read on to learn how they work and whether they are appropriate for your condition.
One study found that antidepressants improved bowel symptoms compared to placebos in approximately 60% of patients. However, two-thirds of the improvement was due to the placebo effect. However, in approximately half of the cases, psychological therapies were effective, possibly because they changed participants’ expectations. Despite this, antidepressants can hurt the brain, making them inappropriate for treating this gastrointestinal problem.
Pepto-Bismol
Pepto-Bismol is a common remedy for upset stomach and indigestion. The pills coat the digestive tract to soothe and provide fast relief from up to five digestive symptoms. Chewable Pepto-Bismol caplets are easily taken on the go. And since they’re fast acting, they’re perfect for people who don’t have time to sit down and take medicine.
Pepto-Bismol is a common over-the-counter medicine that contains bismuth subsalicylate. It treats indigestion, heartburn, and even peptic ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. The product comes in chewable tablets and oral suspension. Other brands include Tums, which contains calcium carbonate.
Mast cell stabilizers
There is a growing interest in mast cell stabilizers for the stomach and bowels, which are drugs that prevent or suppress the activity of mast cells in the body. The function of mast cells is crucial for the digestive tract, where they are a common source of inflammation. Several studies have shown that treatment with mast cell stabilizers improves symptoms. They are available in prescription and over-the-counter forms.
Sodium cromoglicate is a classical MC stabilizer for asthma, food allergy, and conjunctivitis. It is not absorbed in the bowel and reduces the production of mast cells and other chemicals that cause inflammation. It relieves symptoms of diarrhea, bone pain, fatigue, headache, and itching. However, it is not a common medicine and is not readily available on prescription. Psoralen plus ultraviolet A is also used in cases of severe symptoms of cutaneous mastocytosis.
5-ASAs
Using 5-ASA tablets to treat active UC may effectively treat the underlying condition. The medications, however, are no better than a placebo for treating active UC. Some benefits to using 5-ASAs over SASP therapy include reduced side effects. However, the price of 5-ASA compounds is higher than those of SASP, so that cost-conscious patients may prefer SASP therapy. But, before you start taking 5-ASA, be sure to discuss your medical history with your doctor.
Patients with UC were given 5-ASA and developed an exacerbation within two to three weeks. The patients did not show systemic allergic reactions to the medication, although they did develop a high fever in seven of them. In addition, a total colonoscopy performed after the treatment period revealed right-side-dominant colitis in three patients. These findings are consistent with moderately active UC, although further assessment is needed to identify diagnostic criteria and determine the mechanisms involved.
Lubiprostone
Lubiprostone is an over-the-counter medication used to treat women’s irritable bowel syndrome and constipation. Other brand names also know it. The drug is a stool softener and is not suitable for everyone. You must consult your doctor before using it for stomach or bowel blockage. The drug should be taken with food and water. It may cause nausea.
A study of Lubiprostone for stomach and bowels found that it increased the secretion of a substance called chloride in the intestines. This substance also increases the secretion of fluid, which softens stool and promotes intestinal transit, improving the symptoms of constipation. However, Lubiprostone is quickly metabolized and has a low systemic bioavailability.
Wrapping Up
These over-the-counter tablets can bring quick, immediate relief for several short-term and long-term gastrointestinal problems such as stomach and bowels. However, always remember to read the labels carefully before planning to consume them, and talk to a doctor if someone has concerns or queries.
