Gas & Bloating
Over the counter relief options
What is bloating and how to reduce it?
A sensation of abdominal fullness, pressure, or visible swelling, often develops when air is swallowed during eating or drinking, or when the digestive system breaks down certain foods that naturally produce gas. Food intolerances, such as lactose sensitivity or difficulty digesting certain carbohydrates, are also frequent contributors.
In most cases, gas and bloating are temporary and harmless, but they can still cause discomfort and embarrassment, especially after meals.
Some people may also notice discomfort that worsens later in the day or after consuming specific foods like beans, carbonated drinks, dairy, or high-fiber items. Relief often comes from over-the-counter remedies such as simethicone, which helps break up gas bubbles, or lactase enzyme supplements for those with lactose intolerance.
Identifying and avoiding trigger foods, eating slowly, and making dietary adjustments can also reduce the frequency of symptoms.
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Pharmacist-recommended products​​
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​Gas-X® (Simethicone)
A gentle, fast-acting anti-gas option that breaks up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, making them easier to pass. Works within minutes and is safe for frequent or daily use, since simethicone is not absorbed into the bloodstream. Ideal for general bloating and gas discomfort.
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Phazyme® (Simethicone Extra Strength)
Contains a higher dose of simethicone, making it useful for more intense bloating or pressure, especially after eating gas-producing foods like beans, broccoli, cauliflower, onions, or carbonated drinks. Provides the same safety profile as Gas-X® but with stronger effect.
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Beano® (Alpha-Galactosidase)
A preventive option taken before meals. It breaks down complex carbohydrates in foods like beans, lentils, whole grains, and certain vegetables, reducing gas formation before it starts. Best for people who can identify specific food triggers.
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Lactaid® (Lactase Enzyme)
Designed for those with lactose intolerance, meaning their body lacks the lactase enzyme needed to digest dairy sugar. When taken before dairy products, it helps prevent gas, bloating, cramping, and diarrhea caused by milk, cheese, ice cream, and yogurt.
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IBgard® (Peppermint Oil Capsules)
A targeted-release formula that delivers peppermint oil to the small intestine, where it helps relax digestive muscles. Clinically shown to reduce bloating, cramping, and abdominal discomfort in people with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Non-sedating and safe for daily use
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Iberogast® (Herbal Digestive Tonic)
A multi-herb liquid extract that addresses upper and lower digestive symptoms, including bloating, early fullness, stomach cramping, and functional dyspepsia. Works through a combination of anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and motility-regulating effects.
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Activated Charcoal Capsules
Sometimes used for occasional bloating, especially after heavy or fatty meals. It can bind to gas-producing substances but may interfere with medication absorption, so it should be taken at least 2 hours apart from other medications or supplements.
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Probiotic Supplements
Restore and support the gut microbiome to improve long-term digestive balance. Best for chronic or recurring bloating, gas, or irregular bowel habits. Benefits often take 2–4 weeks to notice and vary by strain (e.g., Bifidobacterium for bloating, Lactobacillus for digestion).
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For fast relief after meals, choose Gas-X® or Phazyme® to break up gas bubbles and ease pressure within minutes.
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For prevention with specific foods, use Beano® before eating gas-producing beans or vegetables, or Lactaid® before consuming dairy if you’re lactose intolerant.
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For IBS-related bloating, consider IBgard® or Iberogast®, which help relax digestive muscles and support gut motility.
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Add probiotics for long-term digestive balance, especially if gas and bloating occur frequently or have been ongoing for weeks.
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Seek medical care if bloating is persistent, severe, or accompanied by weight loss, anemia, or blood in the stool, as these signs may indicate a more serious digestive condition.
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