From the Guidelines
To get rid of gas immediately at home, try taking an over-the-counter anti-gas medication containing simethicone, such as Gas-X or Mylanta Gas, as recommended by recent studies 1. The typical adult dose is 125-250 mg after meals and at bedtime. You can also try peppermint tea or capsules, which help relax intestinal muscles and allow gas to pass. However, a recent study found no improvement in bloating symptoms with peppermint oil at the 6-week end point 1. Physical movement helps too—try walking for 10-15 minutes, doing gentle yoga poses like child's pose or knees-to-chest, or massaging your abdomen in a clockwise direction. Heat application with a heating pad on your stomach for 15 minutes can relax muscles and ease discomfort. Avoid additional gas-producing behaviors like drinking through straws, chewing gum, or consuming carbonated beverages. These remedies work by either breaking up gas bubbles in your digestive tract, relaxing spasms in your intestinal muscles, or helping to move the gas through your system more efficiently. Some key points to consider:
- A low-FODMAP diet may be beneficial for some individuals, but it should be implemented under the guidance of a trained gastroenterology dietitian or provider 1.
- Probiotics are not recommended for bloating or distention due to insufficient data supporting their use 1.
- Central neuromodulators, such as antidepressants, may be effective in reducing visceral sensations and improving bloating symptoms 1.
- Gut-related medications that treat constipation, such as secretagogues and 5-hydroxytryptamine 4 receptor agonists, may also help bloating symptoms 1. If gas problems persist regularly or are accompanied by severe pain, consult a healthcare provider.
From the FDA Drug Label
Use for the relief of pressure and bloating commonly referred to as gas To get rid of gas immediately at home, you can try using simethicone (PO), as it is indicated for the relief of pressure and bloating commonly referred to as gas 2.
From the Research
Immediate Relief from Gas at Home
To get rid of gas immediately at home, consider the following options:
- Activated charcoal: Studies have shown that activated charcoal can be effective in reducing intestinal gas and alleviating symptoms such as bloating and abdominal discomfort 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Simethicone: Simethicone is an anti-foaming agent that can help reduce gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, providing relief from gas and bloating 5, 7.
- Dietary modification: Making changes to your diet, such as avoiding gas-producing foods, can help alleviate gas and bloating symptoms 3.
- Prokinetic agents: These agents can help regulate intestinal motility and may be beneficial in reducing gas and bloating symptoms 3.
- Rifaximin: This non-absorbable antibiotic has been shown to reduce hydrogen production in the colon and alleviate gas-related symptoms 4.
Combination Therapies
Some studies have investigated the efficacy of combination therapies, including:
- Activated charcoal and simethicone: This combination has been shown to be effective in reducing dyspeptic symptoms, including gas and bloating 5, 7.
- Simethicone, activated charcoal, and magnesium oxide: This combination has also been found to be effective in reducing overall dyspeptic symptom intensity and individual symptoms such as post-prandial fullness and abdominal bloating 7.