Medicines and Products for Flatulence

Most flatulence does not need medicine. Medicines may help in selected cases, and the cause should be treated where possible.

Over-the-counter options

• Simethicone. Breaks up gas bubbles. Often used for bloating, but evidence that it reduces gas is limited and mixed.
• Lactase enzyme. Taken with dairy by people with lactose intolerance. It can reduce gas, bloating and diarrhoea after milk.
• Alpha-galactosidase (for example in some bean-enzyme products). May reduce gas after beans and pulses in some people.
• Activated charcoal. Evidence is weak, and it can interfere with other medicines. Not routinely advised.
• Peppermint oil capsules. May ease cramps and bloating in IBS for some people. They can cause heartburn.
• Fibre supplements such as psyllium. They help constipation but can increase gas at first, so start low.

Prescription treatment for the cause

• IBS: medicines for cramps, diarrhoea or constipation as advised
• SIBO: a course of specific antibiotics after testing
• Coeliac disease: a strict gluten-free diet
• Constipation: stool softeners or laxatives under guidance
• Review of any medicine that may be causing gas

Safety

• Do not use medicines daily without advice.
• Do not give simethicone or gripe water to infants unless a doctor advises it.
• Check with a pharmacist if you are pregnant or take other medicines.
• Avoid herbal or Ayurvedic products with unclear ingredients, and tell your doctor about any you use.

See a doctor

Gas with blood in stool, weight loss, vomiting, fever or severe pain needs assessment, not just medicine.

Chest pain is not gas. Call 112 or 102 if it is severe.