Enteric-coated peppermint-oil capsules in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: a prospective, randomized trial

J Gastroenterol. 1997 Dec;32(6):765-8. doi: 10.1007/BF02936952.

Abstract

To determine the efficacy and tolerability of an enteric-coated peppermint-oil formulation (Colpermin), we conducted a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study in 110 outpatients (66 men/44 women; 18-70 years of age) with symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Patients took one capsule (Colpermin or placebo) three to four times daily, 15-30 min before meals, for 1 month. Fifty-two patients on Colpermin and 49 on placebo completed the study. Forty-one patients on Colpermin (79%) experienced an alleviation of the severity of abdominal pain (29 were pain-free); 43 (83%) had less abdominal distension, 43 (83%) had reduced stool frequency, 38 (73%) had fewer borborygmi, and 41 (79%) less flatulence. Corresponding figures for the placebo group were: 21 patients (43%) with reduced pain (4 were pain-free), 14 (29%) with reduced distension, 16 (32%) with reduced stool frequency, 15 (31%) with fewer borborygmi, and 11 (22%) with less flatulence. Symptom improvements after Colpermin were significantly better than after placebo (P < 0.05; Mann-Whitney U-test). One patient on Colpermin experienced heartburn (because of chewing the capsules) and one developed a mild transient skin rash. There were no significant changes in liver function test results. Thus, in this trial, Colpermin was effective and well tolerated.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Colonic Diseases, Functional / drug therapy*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mentha piperita
  • Middle Aged
  • Oils, Volatile / therapeutic use
  • Parasympatholytics / administration & dosage
  • Parasympatholytics / adverse effects
  • Parasympatholytics / therapeutic use*
  • Plant Oils / administration & dosage
  • Plant Oils / adverse effects
  • Plant Oils / therapeutic use*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Oils, Volatile
  • Parasympatholytics
  • Plant Oils
  • peppermint oil