Digestive symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation and excessive gas can significantly impact daily life. While many people assume these symptoms are caused by Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), another condition known as Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is becoming increasingly recognised as a possible cause.

Although SIBO and IBS share many symptoms, they are distinct conditions. IBS is a complex digestive disorder linked to factors such as altered gut motility, heightened sensitivity in the digestive tract, changes in the gut microbiome and disruptions in the gut-brain axis. SIBO, on the other hand, occurs when excessive bacteria grow in the small intestine, leading to fermentation of food, gas production, bloating and discomfort.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing SIBO, including prolonged use of acid-reducing medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), slow gut motility, diabetes, ageing and previous intestinal surgery. These conditions can allow bacteria to grow in the wrong part of the digestive system, causing symptoms that closely resemble IBS.

Research suggests that between 25% and 36% of people diagnosed with IBS may also have SIBO, highlighting the importance of accurate assessment and diagnosis. Because the symptoms overlap so closely, self-diagnosis can often lead to ineffective treatment and ongoing discomfort. Patients experiencing persistent digestive symptoms should seek advice from their GP or a gastroenterologist to determine the underlying cause and receive the most appropriate treatment.

Treatment approaches vary depending on the diagnosis. While antibiotics may sometimes be prescribed to treat SIBO, they do not address contributing factors such as poor gut motility and may disrupt the balance of healthy gut bacteria. Dietary interventions, probiotics and medications that support normal gut movement can all play an important role in long-term symptom management.

At Medical Specialists Pharmacy, many patients come to us after receiving a diagnosis and treatment plan from their GP or gastroenterologist.

Our range includes treatments such as Xifaxanta (rifaximin), which is commonly prescribed for certain patients with SIBO and IBS symptoms associated with bacterial overgrowth. Because rifaximin acts primarily within the gut, it can help reduce excess bacteria while limiting absorption into the bloodstream.

For patients with IBS accompanied by constipation (IBS-C), Constella (linaclotide) is another specialist treatment option. Constella works by increasing fluid secretion in the bowel and helping food move through the digestive system more effectively, which can help relieve constipation, abdominal discomfort and bloating.

Medical Specialists Pharmacy offers a wide range of stomach and bowel medications for conditions including IBS, SIBO, chronic constipation, acid reflux and other digestive disorders. Our team understands the challenges these conditions can present, ensuring our patients receive the support they need to better manage their digestive health and improve their quality of life.