Researchers say in the British Medical Journal that guidelines on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) should be updated in light of the recent findings that older 'overlooked' treatments - using fiber, antispasmodic drugs, and peppermint oil - may end up being the best option for IBS patients.

The present line of treatment followed by doctors for treating IBS - characterized by abdominal pain and an irregular bowel habit, and affecting 5% to 20% of the population - include dietary advice, antidepressants and alternative therapies. A UK expert said there had been a general feeling among doctors that the older therapies "didn't work".

Even though the fibre, antispasmodics and peppermint oil treatments have been studied earlier too, their effectiveness has been proved by Dr. Alex Ford - McMaster University, Ontario, Canada - and colleagues on the basis of meta-analysis of randomized trials. The trials, a total of over 2500 adult IBS patients, compared fiber, antispasmodics and peppermint oil to placebo or no treatment.

These treatments, which are effective, safe, and easily available over the counter, have been overlooked after newer and more expensive drugs were introduced. Since all three treatments have been shown to be potentially effective therapies for IBS, the researchers conclude: "Current national guidelines for the management of the condition should be updated to include these data."

The study published on bmj.com, was accompanied by a commentary written by Professor Roger Jones of King's College London, which states that the results of this study should "reawaken interest in the pharmacotherapy of irritable bowel syndrome and stimulate further research."