Irritable bowel syndrome refers to a disorder affecting the large intestine. The Mayo Clinic says that irritable bowel syndrome symptoms include bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation and mucus in the stool. Left untreated, irritable bowel syndrome can lead to missing work or family functions and physical discomfort. Fortunately, drugs for irritable bowel syndrome exist.
Methylcellulose
Methylcellulose, commonly sold as Citrucel, is a bulk-forming laxative that treats irritable bowel syndrome. Specifically, this medication decreases constipation. Drugs.com indicates that some of methylcellulose's side effects include chest pain, trouble swallowing, rectal bleeding and stomach pain. Sometimes this drug can lead to nausea and allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of the face, lips, tongue and throat. Notify a doctor when methylcellulose leads to these effects. Avoid this treatment if you suffer from vomiting or nausea, have trouble swallowing or experience stomach pain. Methycellulose comes as a powder or capsule and is taken daily or as needed.
Alosetron
Alosetron, commonly sold as Lotronex, specifically treats severe forms of irritable bowel syndrome in which diarrhea has occurred for at least six months. Drugs.com says that some of alosetron's less concerning side effects include a headache, rectal hemorrhoids, bloating, gas, stomach discomfort and nausea. Some of alosetron's serious side effects include a fast or irregular heartbeat, bloody stools, rectal bleeding or worsening stomach pain. Phone a doctor when alosetron leads to these effects. Taking such medications as clarithromycin, hydralazine, cimetidine, ketoconazole or isoniazid may interact with alosetron. This drug is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
Lubiprostone
Lubiprostone, commonly sold as Amitiza, is designed to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, says MedlinePlus. This is a laxative drug that increases the fluid within the bowel so that passing stool can occur with less strain. Lubiprostone's less serious side effects include throat tightness, shortness of breath, a rash and swelling of the tongue, throat, face or lips. Some of lubiprostone's serious side effects include stomach pain, bloating, chest discomfort and heartburn. Call a doctor when lubiprostone leads to these effects. Suffering from liver or kidney disease may require a decrease in lubiprostone's dose. This medication is a capsule taken twice a day.
