Enteric-coated, pH-dependent peppermint oil capsules for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in children

Kline, Robert M.; Kline, Jeffrey J.; Di Palma, Joan; Barbero, Giulio J.

doi:10.1067/mpd.2001.109606

« Previous Next »The Journal of Pediatrics
Volume 138, Issue 1 , Pages 125-128, January 2001

Enteric-coated, pH-dependent peppermint oil capsules for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in children☆☆☆★

University of Missouri-Columbia, Department of Child Health, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Columbia, Missouri; Pediatric Gastroenterology and Liver Disease Clinic, Charleston, South Carolina; and Hahnemann University, St Christopher’s Hospital, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Received 9 August 1999; received in revised form 8 March 2000 and 9 June 2000; accepted 19 June 2000.

Abstract

In a randomized, double-blind controlled trial, 42 children with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) were given pH-dependent, enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules or placebo. After 2 weeks, 75% of those receiving peppermint oil had reduced severity of pain associated with IBS. Peppermint oil may be used as a therapeutic agent during the symptomatic phase of IBS. (J Pediatr 2001;138:125-8)

Abbreviations: GSRS , Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale, IBS , Irritable bowel syndrome, RAP , Recurrent abdominal pain