Individual research recommendation details

Recommendation ID

CG61/2

Question

Psychological interventions:- Are the psychological interventions [cognitive behavioural therapy] (CBT), hypnotherapy and psychological therapy all equally effective in the management of [Irritable bowel syndrome] (IBS) symptoms, either as first-line therapies in primary care, or in the treatment of people with IBS that is refractory to other treatments?

Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)

Why this is important:- Reviews show some evidence of effect when comparing psychological interventions with a control group, with the greatest effect shown in people who have refractory IBS. Many trials are small in size. Certain psychological interventions – namely, CBT, hypnotherapy and psychological therapy – are thought to be useful in helping people with IBS to cope with their symptoms, but it is unclear at what stage these should be given, including whether they should be used as first line therapies in primary care. A large randomised trial is proposed, comparing CBT, hypnotherapy and psychological therapy (in particular, psychodynamic interpersonal therapy). Participants should be adults with a positive diagnosis of IBS, and they should be stratified into those with and without refractory IBS and then randomised to treatments. The primary outcome should be global improvement in IBS symptoms. Health-related quality of life should also be measured, and adverse effects recorded. Study outcomes should be assessed 12, 26 and 52 weeks after the start of therapy.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance

Irritable bowel syndrome in adults: diagnosis and management

Number

CG61

Date issued

February 2008

Other details