Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Dicyclomine (Bentyl) and Viberzi (eluxadoline) are both used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but they work differently and have different uses. Dicyclomine is an anticholinergic medication that helps with muscle spasms in the stomach and intestines, making it useful for IBS with cramping. It is available in generic form and is taken four times a day. Common side effects include dizziness, dry mouth, and blurry vision. On the other hand, Viberzi is an antidiarrheal medication that targets opioid receptors in the gut to treat IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D). It is a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and is taken twice a day with food. Viberzi can cause constipation and has a risk of pancreatitis, especially in people without a gallbladder or those who drink a lot of alcohol. Unlike dicyclomine, Viberzi does not have a generic form. Both medications require a prescription and have specific side effects and risks to consider.
Dicyclomine
Viberzi (eluxadoline)
Dicyclomine
Viberzi (eluxadoline)
Summary of Bentyl vs. Viberzi
Summary for Anticholinergic
Prescription only
Dicyclomine, also known by its brand name Bentyl, is an anticholinergic medication that's used to treat spasms of the muscles in the stomach and intestines in adults with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This medication is available as generic tablets, capsules, and liquid that are taken by mouth four times daily. There's also an injection form of dicyclomine that's available as brand name and generic; it's injected into the muscle for people who can't take pills by mouth. Common side effects include dizziness, dry mouth, and blurry vision.
Summary for Opioid receptor agonist/antagonist
Prescription only
Viberzi (eluxadoline) is a prescription medication used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults. It works on the opioid receptor to help ease symptoms such as stomach pain and diarrhea. You typically take a dose by mouth twice a day with food. Because of its potential for misuse and dependence, it’s considered a controlled substance. Common side effects include constipation, nausea, and stomach pain.