Sometimes we need a little extra help to manage IBS symptoms. Luckily, there are some over-the-counter options available at the pharmacy that can provide relief, whether you are dealing with bloating, constipation, or loose stools.

Before we get started, an important rule of thumb:

 always ask the friendly pharmacy staff for guidance on how to use these products, read the patient information leaflet, and follow the recommended dosage. Most of these items are meant as 

If you don't notice any improvement, or feel the need to use them for a longer period, it is important to 

Our advice is based on the NICE guidelines and recommendations from the Norwegian Advisory Unit for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (NKFM).

1. For lactose intolerance: Lactase enzymes

If you notice that lactose causes you issues, lactase enzymes can be a great help. If lactose (milk sugar) is not broken down properly in the gut, it can lead to symptoms like loose stools, bloating, pain, and nausea. Lactase is the enzyme that breaks down lactose in the gut.

 Available as capsules, tablets, and chewable tablets.

 Some chewable tablets contain the sweeteners xylitol and sorbitol. These are high in FODMAPs, so check the ingredients carefully and ask the pharmacy staff for help.

2. For both constipation and loose stools: Psyllium

Psyllium husk is a specific fibre that helps balance your bowels, whether they are too fast or too slow. If you have diarrhoea, it soaks up extra liquid to firm things up. If you are constipated, it draws water into your stool, making it softer and much easier to pass.

 A common over-the-counter option containing ispaghula husk (psyllium). It usually comes as granules that you mix into water. Drink it straight away, and remember to drink plenty of water alongside it!

 You can also buy pure psyllium husk from the grocery shop, or try 1-2 tablespoons of flaxseeds soaked overnight.

 It is completely normal to experience a bit more gas in the beginning. Increase your intake gradually over a few days to give your stomach time to adjust to the extra fibre.

If you are experiencing constipation, a laxative containing macrogol can help get your bowels moving again by binding water in the gut, which softens the stool. Macrogol is available under several different brand names, such as 

. Some may require a prescription while others are available over the counter - check with the pharmacy staff or doctor what is right for you.

Several research studies have shown that peppermint oil can relieve abdominal pain in IBS by helping the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract relax. 

The best-documented effect is found in targeted capsules, available under brand names like 

. Alternatively, some find some comfort in drinking peppermint tea or mixing a few drops of food-grade peppermint oil into water. 

: If you suffer from reflux or heartburn, you should avoid peppermint oil, as it can unfortunately worsen those specific symptoms.

Pharmacies are flooded with probiotics claiming to improve gut flora and reduce IBS symptoms. While several studies indicate that probiotics can ease IBS symptoms, much remains uncertain. We still lack definitive answers on which bacterial strains work best, in what amounts, and how long you should take them. Therefore, we cannot recommend one specific type.

 If you want to try them, test a product for 1–2 months. If you don't notice any difference, there is no reason to continue using it.

 Fermented milk products with added lactic acid bacteria can be a good place to start before buying expensive supplements, provided you can find a low FODMAP option. 

6. For acute diarrhoea: Imodium / Loperamide

This is a good emergency solution when you have loose stools and need quick control – for instance, if you are about to travel, attending an important meeting, or for other reasons need to delay a bowel movement for a few hours. It makes the stool firmer and reduces the number of trips to the bathroom for a few hours.

 We unfortunately do not assess medicines, food supplements, or herbal remedies, even though you might find advice about some of them here in our articles. These products can affect your body in many different ways, and we always recommend that you consult your doctor before trying them. That way, you can be entirely sure that they are safe and actually suit your specific needs.

The pharmacy is packed with remedies that claim to fix tummy troubles, but which ones are actually worth a try? 💊 Registered Dietitian Eline has the answers!

Over-the-counter remedies that can help