From the Guidelines
To relieve flatulence, the most effective option is to use central neuromodulators, such as antidepressants, which have been shown to reduce visceral sensations and improve bloating symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs) 1.
Options for Relieving Flatulence
- Central neuromodulators, including tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (e.g., duloxetine and venlafaxine), have been found to be effective in reducing bloating symptoms in patients with IBS and other DGBIs 1.
- Gut-related medications that treat constipation, such as secretagogues (e.g., lubiprostone, linaclotide, and plecanatide), may also help alleviate bloating symptoms in patients with IBS-C 1.
- Anorectal biofeedback therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing bloating symptoms in patients with IBS-C and chronic constipation, particularly when an evacuation disorder is identified 1.
- Brain-gut behavioral therapies, including hypnotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), may also be beneficial in improving overall quality of life and reducing symptoms associated with DGBIs, including bloating 1.
Important Considerations
- The use of probiotics is not recommended for bloating or distention due to insufficient data supporting their efficacy and potential risks, such as developing new onset of brain fogginess, bloating, and lactic acidosis 1.
- Peppermint oil, a commonly used herbal remedy, has not been shown to be effective in improving bloating symptoms in patients with IBS, although it may have minimal adverse effects 1.
- Dietary restrictions, such as a low-FODMAP diet, may be beneficial in some patients, but their implementation should be done under the guidance of a trained gastroenterology dietitian or provider to avoid potential negative impacts on the gut microbiome and malnutrition 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
This product contains an enzyme that helps digest the complex carbohydrates found in manyfoods, so they don’t cause gas, bloating and discomfort‡. Use for the relief of pressure and bloating commonly referred to as gas
The options to relieve flatulence (gas) are:
- Alpha-galactosidase (PO): an enzyme that helps digest complex carbohydrates found in many foods, reducing gas, bloating, and discomfort 2
- Simethicone (PO): used for the relief of pressure and bloating commonly referred to as gas 3
From the Research
Options to Relieve Flatulence (Gas)
- Alpha-galactosidase: an oral solution that can prevent flatus and other gastrointestinal symptoms resulting from a high-fiber diet, as shown in a study where the number of flatulence events per hour was significantly less in the group treated with alpha-galactosidase than placebo 4.
- Simethicone, activated charcoal, and magnesium oxide combination (Carbosymag®): a combination that has been used for almost 20 years in functional dyspepsia and has been shown to be effective in reducing overall dyspeptic symptom intensity, including post-prandial fullness, epigastric pain, epigastric burning, and abdominal bloating 5.
- Activated charcoal-simethicone combination (Carbosylane): a combination that has been shown to be effective in reducing dyspeptic symptoms, including abdominal fullness, bloating, and the sensation of slow digestion, in patients consulting a general practitioner 6.
- Oral alpha-galactosidase: has been shown to reduce intestinal gas production and gas-related symptoms, including bloating, abdominal pain, discomfort, flatulence, and diarrhea, after a challenge test meal in healthy volunteers 7, 4.