The difficulties treating and diagnosing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have been highlighted by the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA). IBS is believed to affect around 20 percent of the population, although many remain unaware they suffer from the gastrointestinal disorder, attributing it to other medical conditions, food poisoning, viruses and other possible causes.
IBS is a long-term disorder of the gastrointestinal functions, which can cause discomfort in the abdomen and changes in bowel habits. Symptoms typically include: intermittent abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea and bloating. It may be difficult to diagnose as doctors try to rule out the possibility that symptoms are caused by another underlying medical condition. There is no cure for IBS, but treatment options to alleviate symptoms are available.
Tara Altepeter MD, gastroenterologist at the FDA, drew attention to the problems treating IBS, stating: "IBS is not like other chronic conditions, such as hypertension, which is constant. IBS is a variable condition." She explained symptoms may vanish over time, even without treatment, but that they may return after a few months. Lifestyle changes, such as getting more exercise, dietary changes and using relaxation techniques should be the first steps to treating IBS, she suggested.
Altepeter noted that treatment of IBS varies from patient to patient. Drugs most commonly prescribed to treat IBS are anticholinergics such as Bentyl (dicylcomine), which block involuntary muscle movements and help control diarrhea and other gastrointestinal disorders. Last month, Synercy Pharmaceuticals announced the submission of a supplemental New Drug Application for Trulance (plecanatide) to treat adults with IBS with constipation. Many of those suffering from IBS also struggle with depression or anxiety issues. However, the FDA expert observed the exact nature of the connection is uncertain and warned antidepressants should not be considered a cure for IBS.
“Researchers are more closely examining the role of dietary modification as a treatment for patients with IBS,” Altepeter explained. Avoiding certain food and drinks may prevent IBS symptoms manifesting. This may include cutting out or reducing consumption of: milk products, coffee, alcohol, and carbohydrate-dense, spicy or fatty food. While medication is a treatment option, the FDA advised patients to make lifestyle changes and try other therapies before considering using medication to treat their condition.
