Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Trapped wind and bloating are common and usually harmless. Simple anti-gas medicines and diet changes help most people — but persistent bloating with other symptoms deserves a check.
Prokinetics help the stomach empty when there is fullness
Diet: eat slowly, cut fizzy drinks and gas-forming foods
Probiotics/fibre may help some people
Common over-the-counter options
Simethicone (anti-gas)
Antacid + simethicone combinations
Probiotics
Prescription / doctor-guided options
Prokinetics: itopride, levosulpiride
Antispasmodics for cramps: dicyclomine, drotaverine, mebeverine
When to see a doctor urgently
Persistent bloating with weight loss, blood in stool, or a change in bowel habit — see a doctor
Severe or worsening abdominal pain
Bloating with vomiting and no passing of gas/stool
Not a prescription. This lists medicines commonly used for this condition to help you understand your options — it is NOT a prescription. Do not self-medicate: the right choice and dose depend on the cause, your health and other medicines, and prescription drugs (especially antibiotics) need a doctor. Misusing antibiotics drives resistance.
Frequently asked questions
What medicine helps with gas?
Simethicone breaks up trapped gas and is available over the counter. Prokinetics and antispasmodics help when there is fullness or cramping — guided by a doctor.
Why do I feel bloated so often?
Common causes are eating quickly, fizzy drinks, gas-forming foods, constipation or IBS. Persistent bloating with other symptoms should be checked.
Do probiotics help bloating?
They help some people, especially with IBS or after antibiotics, alongside diet changes.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.