Laxatives

• Over-the-counter or prescription laxatives may provide relief from constipation caused by irritable bowel syndrome, although they are not recommended for use in pregnant women.
  
  

Stool Softeners

• Stool softeners ease constipation by adding water and fat into the stool, which makes the stool less painful for the body to eliminate.
  
  

Anti-Diarrhea Medications

• Anti-diarrhea medications, such as Imodium, can help control diarrhea and abdominal cramping caused by irritable bowel syndrome.
  
  

Anti-depressants

• According to the Cleveland Clinic, people with irritable bowel syndrome may be prescribed anti-depressants to help with abdominal pain and diarrhea.
  
  

Anti-spasmodics

• Anticholinergic or anti-spasmodic medications that target the autonomic nervous system can treat reduce muscle spasms in the bowels.
  
  

Alosetron

• Alosetron is only used for IBS and is approved for use in women with severe diarrhea who have unsuccessfully been treated with other medications.
  
  

Lubiprostone

• According to the Mayo Clinic, lubiprostone is only approved for use in women. It treats constipation caused by IBS by increasing fluid in the stool.