The article provides information on the symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome and the means to treat the disease. Irritable bowel syndrome involves abdominal pain, bloating and discomfort. It can seriously impair overall quality of life. The first-line therapy for all forms of the disease includes education, reassurance, exercise, trigger avoidance and dietary modification. Renzapride and E-3620 compounds have been examined for their possible effect on the syndrome.