Mechanisms

Iberogast is a partial 5HT4 agonist and 5HT3 antagonist with dual action principles. It works by four main mechanisms of action:

  • Accelerates gastric emptying
  • Reduces pain and cramping
  • Alleviates heartburn by increasing the content of mucosa protective factors
  • Relieves bloating and induces expulsion of gas from the intestines
The tone-promoting effect of Iberis amara acts in combination with the spasmolytic effects of the drug extracts on the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. Individual extracts contained in Iberogast bind 5HT3 and 5HT4 receptors to modulate sensitivity and motility. Iberogast extracts also demonstrate a high affinity for muscarine M3 receptors, contributing to the modulating properties of Iberogast. Symptoms of bloating, gas, and early satiety are relieved by the carminative effects of plant extracts from caraway fruits and peppermint leaves. A reduction in gastric acid secretion is attained through the effects of components contained in Iberogast. An increase in the mucosa-protective prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and mucins, as well as a reduction of mucosa-damaging leukotrienes, was achieved by means of Iberogast. Investigations show that Iberogast protects the stomach from acid by inhibiting acid production in the parietal cells and increasing production of mucous in the ancillary cells. The bioavailability of the active ingredients of Iberogast is excellent and they are rapidly absorbed without delay and over a wide concentration range.