Irritable bowel syndrome: The Daily PANCE Blueprint
What class of medications can be used to treat the abdominal pain associated with IBS?
A. Antispasmodics (Dicyclomine)
B. 5-ASA agents (Mesalamine)
C. Bile acid sequestrants
D. Proton Pump Inhibitors
E. Stimulant laxatives
Answer and topic summary
The answer is A. Antispasmodics (Dicyclomine)
For the acute abdominal pain and cramping associated with IBS, antispasmodics (anticholinergics) like Dicyclomine or Hyoscyamine are first-line. They work by blocking acetylcholine at parasympathetic sites in smooth muscle, relaxing the gut and relieving the spasm. (Note: Low-dose Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) like Amitriptyline can also be used off-label for chronic, baseline IBS pain) and are particularly helpful for IBS-D because they slow GI transit time.
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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:
Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint GI and Nutrition ⇒ ⇒
