What are the treatment options for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Diverticulosis?

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Last updated: March 21, 2025View editorial policy

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From the FDA Drug Label

The efficacy of LINZESS for the treatment of IBS-C was established in two double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, multicenter trials in adult patients VIBERZI is indicated in adults for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D)

  • Treatment options for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):
    • For IBS with constipation (IBS-C), linaclotide (LINZESS) is a treatment option 1
    • For IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D), eluxadoline (VIBERZI) is a treatment option 2
  • Treatment options for Diverticulosis: No information is provided in the given drug labels regarding the treatment of Diverticulosis.

From the Research

Treatment for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and diverticulosis should prioritize symptom management and prevention of complications, with a focus on dietary modifications, fiber supplementation, and medications such as rifaximin and eluxadoline for IBS-D, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 3. The management of IBS and diverticulosis involves a multifaceted approach, including:

  • Dietary modifications, such as a low-FODMAP diet, to reduce fermentable carbohydrates found in certain fruits, vegetables, dairy, and wheat products
  • Fiber supplementation with psyllium (Metamucil) at 1-2 tablespoons daily to help regulate bowel movements
  • Medications, including:
    • Antispasmodics like dicyclomine (10-20mg three times daily) for cramping
    • Loperamide (2mg as needed) for diarrhea
    • Polyethylene glycol (17g daily) for constipation
    • Tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline (10-25mg at bedtime) for pain and bowel habits
    • Rifaximin, a nonabsorbable antibiotic, for IBS-D, as shown to be effective in reducing symptoms in patients with IBS-D 4
    • Eluxadoline, a gut-targeting μ and κ opioid receptor agonist and a δ opioid receptor antagonist, for IBS-D, as approved by the FDA and shown to be effective in reducing symptoms in patients with IBS-D 3 For diverticulosis, a high-fiber diet (25-30g daily) is recommended to prevent constipation and formation of new diverticula. During acute diverticulitis episodes, antibiotics like ciprofloxacin (500mg twice daily) plus metronidazole (500mg three times daily) for 7-10 days may be needed, along with temporary liquid diet. Both conditions benefit from regular physical activity, stress management techniques, and adequate hydration (at least 8 glasses of water daily), as these treatments work by regulating gut motility, reducing inflammation, and preventing pressure buildup in the colon that can exacerbate symptoms or lead to complications 5, 6.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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