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Fecal Pill Poised to Conquer IBS Symptoms
26 Jan
Summary
- A fecal transplant pill may significantly reduce IBS symptoms.
- Two doses of the pill EBX-102-02 proved effective in a UK trial.
- The treatment aims to restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
A novel pill made from human faeces, identified as EBX-102-02, is emerging as a potential breakthrough for individuals suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This innovative treatment aims to restore a healthy balance within the gut microbiome, which plays a critical role in digestive health.
Recent findings from a UK clinical trial involving 122 IBS patients revealed that administering two doses of EBX-102-02 a week apart led to a significant reduction in severe symptoms. These symptoms commonly include diarrhoea, constipation, stomach cramps, and bloating.
Almost 60% of trial participants reported substantial symptom relief in the weeks and months following the treatment. A larger study is planned for later in 2026 to confirm these promising results. If successful, this drug could become available on the NHS within a few years.
IBS affects approximately 12 million adults in the UK, with two-thirds of sufferers being women. Current treatments focus on diet, lifestyle changes, and medications like mebeverine. Faecal transplants, delivered via endoscope, have shown success but are labour-intensive. EnteroBiotix's pill, however, offers a more convenient oral administration with a protective coating to ensure the beneficial bacteria reach the gut.
While initial results are highly promising, some participants experienced side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and headaches. Separately, research is exploring faecal transplant pills for Crohn's disease.
