The Antihistamine-IBS Connection
“Damage to the gut that occurs with IBS will often travel with sensitivity to histamines, and we know that histamines exist in larger quantities in people with IBS, resulting in inflammation that may worsen IBS symptoms,” explains William J. Bulsiewicz, MD, a gastroenterologist and the author of the book Fiber Fueled.
When histamine is released in the gut, nerve receptors called TRPV1 are activated. “Histamine triggers the nerves and the TRPV1 tells us that something is wrong by causing abdominal pain,” explains Dr. Bulsiewicz.
What’s more, researchers found that blocking histamine prevents the chain reaction with TRPV1 and relieves pain. Specifically, people with IBS who took an antihistamine called ebastine for 12 weeks had significantly less abdominal pain than their counterparts who did not take this hay fever medication.
This drug is not available in the United States. But there are many over-the-counter antihistamines available that work in a similar fashion. These include diphenhydramine (Benadryl), loratadine (Claritin), and cetirizine (Zyrtec). “Some people with IBS may find a benefit from using an antihistamine because it is helping to block the pain signal,” Bulsiewicz says.
One thing to consider: All drugs have side effects, and antihistamines are no exception. Some antihistamines may cause:
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Excitability
- Vision changes
- Decreased appetite
Note that antihistamines are not formally approved for treatment of IBS, even though there is preliminary evidence that they may play a role in treatment of IBS symptoms. If you are interested in trying antihistamines for IBS relief, talk with your doctor first to make sure it’s the best choice for you.
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