From the Journals

Ethosuximide vs Placebo for IBS Pain

Randomized trial found no improvement in abdominal pain and higher discontinuation rates with the calcium channel blocker.

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A randomized clinical trial published in JAMA Network Open evaluated the effectiveness of ethosuximide for treating abdominal pain in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The study involved 124 adults assigned to receive either ethosuximide or a placebo for 12 weeks. Results indicated no significant improvement in abdominal pain for those taking ethosuximide, with 27% of the treatment group versus 23% of the placebo group meeting response criteria. Higher discontinuation rates due to adverse events were observed in the ethosuximide group, highlighting safety concerns and call for further research on selective T-type calcium channel modulators.

Original Source(s)

Ethosuximide vs Placebo for IBS Pain

Randomized trial found no improvement in abdominal pain and higher discontinuation rates with the calcium channel blocker.

  • by Olivia Anderson

  • February 20, 2026

  • 3 min

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