Conventional medicines can be prescribed by doctors to treat the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. These medicines may cause depletion of certain nutrients.  Following is a list of common conventional medicines that may be used for IBS:

• Alosetron hydrochloride – Brand name, Lotronex^®.  This medication is for women with the primary symptom of diarrhea.  It can produce constipation and decreased blood flow to the colon.  It is not known to deplete any nutrients.^2,3,4
• Hyoscyamine – Brand names Anaspaz^®, Cystospaz^®, Cystospaz-M^®, Levsin^®.  This drug is used to control symptoms of digestive tract disorders.  It relaxes the muscles of the gut.  This medication can produce dizziness and blurred vision as well as decrease the ability to sweat.  It is not known to deplete any nutrients.^2,3,4
• Tegaserod maleate – Brand name, Zelnorm^®.  This is a short-term treatment (four weeks) for women with constipation as a main symptom.  It increases the movements of stools through the bowel.  Side effects include diarrhea, cramping, and dizziness.  It is not known to deplete any nutrients.^2,3,4,5
• Diflucan^® – An antifungal which can be taken parenterally or by mouth.  Used by many doctors to treat what they believe to be an underlying fungal infection causing IBS.  While expensive, it is considered by many doctors as the best overall antifungal medication.  A compounding pharmacist can also make a dye-free Diflucan that is generally much less expensive than the normal prescription pill form.  It is not known to deplete any nutrients.^2,3,4

Additional Information about Irritable Bowel Syndrome

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome Overview
2. Common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome
3. Common causes of irritable bowel syndrome
4. Help me choose a natural and alternative treatment for irritable bowel syndrome
5. Dietary and lifestyle recommendations that may help in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome