From the Guidelines
Over-the-counter treatments for trapped gas include simethicone products, which work by breaking up gas bubbles in your digestive tract, and should be taken as directed on the package after meals and at bedtime 1. When considering the management of trapped gas, it's essential to prioritize treatments that reduce gas bubbles and alleviate discomfort.
- Simethicone is commonly used to reduce gas bubbles during endoscopy, and its use is recommended by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy guidelines, suggesting the use of the lowest concentration and smallest volume if required 1.
- In addition to simethicone, gentle exercise like walking for 10-15 minutes after meals can help gas move through your system, and applying a heating pad to your abdomen for 15 minutes can relax muscles and ease discomfort.
- Dietary changes can also prevent gas, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding carbonated beverages, chewing food thoroughly, and limiting gas-producing foods like beans, cabbage, and onions.
- Other remedies like peppermint tea and fennel seeds may also be beneficial in reducing gas formation and alleviating discomfort, although the evidence for these is less strong 1. It's crucial to note that while these remedies can help alleviate trapped gas, it's essential to consider the underlying cause of the gas and address any underlying conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), to ensure effective management and prevent recurrence 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Use for the relief of pressure and bloating commonly referred to as gas The OTC treatment for trapped gas is simethicone.
- Simethicone is used for the relief of pressure and bloating commonly referred to as gas 2
From the Research
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments for Trapped Gas
- Simethicone and activated charcoal have been used to treat gas-related symptoms, although with conflicting results 3
- Rifaximin, a non-absorbable antimicrobial agent, has been shown to significantly reduce hydrogen excretion and overall severity of symptoms in patients with gas-related symptoms 3
- The low-FODMAP diet, probiotics, and rifaximin may be effective in reducing flatulence symptoms 4
Home Remedies for Trapped Gas
- There is limited evidence to support specific home remedies for trapped gas, but dietary changes and probiotics may be beneficial 4
- Peppermint oil has been shown to be effective in reducing abdominal pain and cramps, which may be associated with trapped gas 4
Antacids and Acid Inhibitors
- Antacids such as Rennie and Riopan Gel can provide fast pain relief for heartburn symptoms, but their effect on intragastric acidity is short-lasting 5
- The use of over-the-counter acid inhibitors and antacids may be substituted for consultation with a general practitioner, but it is advisable for users to be informed about appropriate use and when to consult a doctor 6