Pycnogenol® supplementation improves the control of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms

BACKGROUND: The aim of this registry was to evaluate the effects of Pycnogenol (R) on the main symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in otherwise healthy individuals. METHODS: This study included 77 healthy individuals with symptoms of IBS. The patients were divided into three groups: group 1 was treated with Buscopan (10 mg when needed), group 2 (Antispasmina col forte; 50 mg papaverine hydrochloride+10 mg belladonna extract when needed) and 3 (Pycnogenol (R) 150 mg/day) for 3 weeks. RESULTS: The number of painful attacks was comparable in all groups after four weeks. Mild pain on manual abdomen pressure was decreased in all groups, with the improvement in the Pycnogenol (R) group significantly more pronounced that in both control groups (P<0.05). Perceived abdominal bowel movements/distension were significantly relieved in group 2 (Antispasmina Col Forte) and 3 (Pycnogenol (R)) (P<0.05) in comparison with Buscopan (group 1). CONCLUSIONS: Pycnogenol (R) has shown a significant, protective and preventive activity on IBS symptoms, and thus it may represent a potential "soft" approach to IBS.