IBS & IBD. You can’t always trust your gut.
It’s more than an irritation. Or an inconvenience. Inflammation undersells it. When it comes to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), we’re here for you.
One in five Australians develop IBS at some point in their lifetime. IBS and IBD are chronic conditions, causing abdominal pain, cramping, and urgent bowel movements.
Because of their bowels, people’s quality of life is reduced, their workforce productivity is impaired, and significant disability can result. There is no simple cure for IBS or IBD – but treatments and lifestyle changes can help reduce and alleviate symptoms.
Looking for how to help someone with IBS or IBD? At HealthMatch, we’re bringing forward tomorrow’s treatments. We have trials actively recruiting for IBS & IBD patients, including ones aimed at the molecular level such as biologic therapy and immunomodulators (aimed at managing the underlying pathological process of IBS and IBD).
"Life with IBS is unpredictable and stressful. All I know is that anywhere, anytime, I might need to find a bathroom very quickly." Sally*, 27
Find a clinical trial today.
Explore clinical trials for irritable bowel syndrome (ibs)
Evaluating an Investigational Drug in Adults With Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Evaluating an Investigational Medication in Children Aged 6 to Under 18 Years with Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C)
Acceptability and Efficacy of Zemedy App Versus Education and Relaxation Training App for IBS
Browse 100+ other trials on HealthMatch
Create an account and start answering some questions to see what trials match your profile.
9%
of Australians are affected by irritable bowel syndrome¹
80,000
Australians live with inflammatory bowel disease²
800+
cases of ulcerative colitis are diagnosed each year in Australia³
Why clinical trials?
Clinical trials are vital for researchers and physicians to advance modern medicine and improve the quality of life for future patients. All the drugs and medical equipment we use today are available because patients participated in clinical trials.
How do I apply for a trial?
Our platform helps you find the right match by showing you only trials you’re eligible for and simplifying the jargon. You’re then able to view matches and apply for trials in an easy-to-use dashboard. Once you’ve been accepted, we’ll put you in direct contract with the trial group.
If you don’t match with a clinical trial today, we won’t stop searching until we find the right match for you.
About HealthMatch
HealthMatch is an organisation driven by a mission to accelerate medical research allowing for faster and more efficient access to life-changing medication.
Our community consists of a diverse team of doctors, engineers, scientists, and people dedicated to challenging the status quo of medical research.
We are united by a passion to deliver better healthcare options, for all, regardless of location, background or means. This means access to trials and the revolutionary treatments that come from them.
FAQ
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)?
IBS is a disorder of the gastrointestinal tract, affecting the colon or large bowel. It involves abdominal pain and bloating, and changes in bowel movement.
IBD is inflammation or destruction of the bowel wall. It is an autoimmune disorder. Types of IBD include Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
It is possible to have both IBD and IBS.
What are the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
The symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome are less severe than those of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Symptoms for IBS include abdominal pain; cramping or bloating that is relieved by passing wind or faeces; alternating diarrhoea and constipation; mucus in the stools and nausea.
During a flare of IBD, symptoms can include diarrhoea; severe or chronic abdominal cramping; loss of appetite; fatigue; fever; rectal bleeding; joint pain and more. During periods of remission, people may not experience any symptoms.
How do you treat IBS and IBD?
Preventative measures are primarily used for IBS. Dietary changes (increasing fibrous foods and reducing gas-producing foods), antibiotics, and medication that eases constipation or diarrhea are often prescribed.
For people with IBD, treatment varies based on severity. You can manage it effectively through the use of medications that control the abnormal inflammatory response. Medications are used in combination with supplements and diet.
Is there a cure for IBS and IBD?
There is currently no cure for IBS or IBD.
1 NPS MedicineWise, Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome
2 Crohn's & Colitis, About Crohn's & colitis
3 healthdirect, Ulcerative colitis
* Names have been changed to protect identities