A Review of Pharmacologic and Non-Pharmacologic Therapies in the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Current Recommendations and Evidence

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a highly prevalent and debilitating disorder of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) affecting millions globally. It imposes a significant burden on healthcare systems and is a leading cause of workplace absenteeism. IBS is classified into several subtypes based on predominant presenting symptoms, including IBS with constipation (IBS-C) and IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D), with each requiring targeted approaches to treatment. Some treatments, such as psychotherapy, dietary intervention, and medications like tricyclic antidepressants, are nonspecific and recommended for managing IBS symptoms across all subtypes. In contrast, therapies like secretagogues for IBS-C and eluxadoline or rifaximin for IBS-D are subtype-specific. However, many IBS treatments carry conditional recommendations and are based on low-certainty evidence, emphasizing the need for further research to expand the available treatment options. This review compares the latest IBS management guidelines from the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), American College of Gastroenterology (ACG), British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG), and European Society for Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM). Pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic therapies, including established and emerging interventions, will be explored to provide a comprehensive guide to management.