What is Buscopan IBS Relief?

Buscopan IBS Relief is an antispasmodic medicine used to relieve the painful cramps and discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Each tablet contains 10 mg of hyoscine butylbromide, which helps relax the muscles of the bowel.

How Does Buscopan IBS Relief Work?

Buscopan works by acting directly on the smooth muscle of the gut. In IBS, the bowel muscles can contract too strongly, causing painful spasms, bloating, and discomfort. Hyoscine butylbromide reduces these spasms, easing cramps and helping the bowel return to a more natural rhythm.

Symptoms of IBS

IBS symptoms vary between individuals, but common ones include:

Stomach cramps or abdominal pain, often eased by passing stool
Bloating and excess wind
Diarrhoea, constipation, or a mix of both
Urgent or frequent bowel movements
Symptoms often come and go, and can be triggered by diet, stress, or hormonal changes.

Alternative Treatment Options

Other approaches to managing IBS include:

- Lifestyle and dietary changes, such as following a low FODMAP diet or reducing caffeine.
- Other antispasmodics, such as mebeverine (Colofac IBS).
- Peppermint oil capsules, which also relax bowel muscles.
- Over-the-counter medicines for diarrhoea (e.g. loperamide) or constipation (e.g. laxatives).
- Stress management, exercise, and sleep improvement.

Can Buscopan IBS Relief Be Purchased Over the Counter?

Yes. In the UK, Buscopan IBS Relief can be purchased without a prescription. A pharmacist will ask about your symptoms to make sure it is suitable for you. It is intended for adults and children aged 12 years and over.

• The usual adult dose is one 135mg tablet three times daily.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water, 20 minutes before meals. Do not chew or crush.
• As symptoms improve, your prescriber may reduce the dose.
  
  
• Always follow the directions provided by your prescriber or pharmacist.

Active ingredient

Hyoscine butylbromide 10 mg per tablet

Inactive ingredients (excipients)

Calcium hydrogen phosphate
Maize starch
Soluble starch
Colloidal anhydrous silica
Magnesium stearate
Sucrose
Talc
Acacia
Titanium dioxide (E171)
Macrogol 6000
Carnauba wax
Montan glycol wax

Always check the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the full ingredient list — especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.

Buscopan IBS Relief is generally well tolerated, but some people may experience:

• Mild skin reactions such as rash or itching
• Rare allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing (seek urgent medical help)