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Buscomint - 24 Soft Capsules

Buscomint - 24 Soft Capsules

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  • ✔️ Relieves IBS cramps, bloating, and flatulence effectively
  • ✔️ Enteric-coated capsules target the intestines directly
  • ✔️ Contains clinically recognised peppermint oil antispasmodic
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ No prescription required — 24 capsules ready to use

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What Are Peppermint Oil Capsules for IBS?

 

If you live with irritable bowel syndrome, you'll know how disruptive the cramps, bloating, and unpredictable gut behaviour can be. Buscomint 24 Soft Capsules offer a clinically recognised, over-the-counter option for managing these symptoms. Each enteric-coated soft capsule contains 0.2 ml of peppermint oil — a well-established antispasmodic that targets the gut directly. Peppermint oil capsules for IBS have been used in clinical practice for decades, and the NHS acknowledges peppermint oil as one of the self-care options for IBS symptom relief. You can explore the full range of IBS and cramps treatments available at Cured Pharmacy if you're looking for additional support alongside Buscomint.

IBS affects roughly one in five people in the UK at some point in their lives, according to the NHS. Symptoms vary widely — some people experience predominantly pain and cramping, others deal mainly with bloating or changes in bowel habit. Buscomint is specifically designed to address the spasm-related discomfort that makes daily life so difficult for many IBS sufferers.

 

How Does Buscomint Work in the Body?

 

The active ingredient in Buscomint is peppermint oil, which works as a smooth muscle relaxant in the gastrointestinal tract. Here's how it acts:

  • Menthol — the key component of peppermint oil — blocks calcium channels in the smooth muscle cells lining the gut wall.
  • This reduces the intensity and frequency of muscle contractions, which are responsible for the cramping pain typical of IBS.
  • The enteric coating on each capsule means it passes through the stomach intact and dissolves in the small intestine, delivering the oil where it's needed most.
  • This targeted release also helps minimise the risk of heartburn that can occur when peppermint oil reaches the oesophagus too early.

Because the capsule is enteric-coated, it's important not to chew or crush it. Doing so would break down that protective layer and reduce effectiveness while increasing the chance of side effects.

 

Who Is Buscomint Suitable For?

 

Buscomint is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who have been diagnosed with IBS or who experience recurrent abdominal cramping, bloating, and flatulence consistent with IBS. It's an over-the-counter medicine, so no prescription is needed. That said, it's always worth speaking to your GP or pharmacist before starting any new medicine, particularly if you have other health conditions.

Buscomint may be a good fit for you if:

  • You have a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of IBS.
  • You experience abdominal cramps, bloating, or excessive wind.
  • You are aged 12 or over.
  • You prefer a plant-derived, non-prescription option for gut symptom relief.

 

How Does Buscomint Compare to Other IBS Treatments?

 

Feature Buscomint (Peppermint Oil) Buscopan (Hyoscine Butylbromide)
Active ingredient Peppermint oil 0.2 ml Hyoscine butylbromide 10 mg
Mechanism Calcium channel blocker (smooth muscle relaxant) Anticholinergic (smooth muscle relaxant)
Origin Plant-derived Synthetic
Suitable for age 12+ Yes Yes (Buscopan IBS Relief)

 

How Should Buscomint Be Stored and Who Should Avoid It?

 

Store Buscomint below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're also managing other digestive concerns, you might find our indigestion treatments collection useful alongside your IBS management plan.

Buscomint should not be used by anyone with a known allergy to peppermint or menthol. It is also not recommended for people with achlorhydria (absence of stomach acid), as the enteric coating relies on the acidic stomach environment to function correctly. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Buscomint 24 Soft Capsules specifications
Treatment category Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Mechanism of action Smooth muscle relaxant via calcium channel blockade
Effective for Abdominal cramps, bloating, flatulence associated with IBS
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Peppermint oil 0.2 ml per capsule
Pack size 24 soft capsules
Strength 0.2 ml peppermint oil per capsule
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Antispasmodic
Preparation Enteric-coated soft capsule
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Buscomint 24 Soft Capsules

 

What Is Buscomint and What Is It Used For?

 

Buscomint 24 Soft Capsules contain peppermint oil as the active ingredient. Each enteric-coated capsule delivers 0.2 ml of peppermint oil directly to the intestines, where it acts as an antispasmodic — relaxing the smooth muscle of the gut wall to relieve painful cramps and spasms. It is used to relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), including abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, and flatulence. The NHS lists peppermint oil as a recognised self-care option for IBS, and it is available without a prescription.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Buscomint?

 

Before taking Buscomint, make sure it is appropriate for you. Do not take Buscomint if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to peppermint oil, menthol, or any other ingredient in the capsule.
  • You have achlorhydria (a condition where the stomach produces little or no acid).
  • You are under 12 years of age.
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding — consult your GP or pharmacist first.

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking Buscomint if you have hiatus hernia, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), or any other stomach condition. Also consider the following interactions:

  • Antacids — do not take within one hour of Buscomint, as they can dissolve the enteric coating prematurely and cause heartburn.
  • Other medicines that affect gut motility — seek pharmacist advice before combining.

 

How Should You Use Buscomint?

 

Always follow the instructions on the packaging or as directed by your pharmacist. Here's a step-by-step guide to taking Buscomint correctly:

  1. Take one capsule 30 to 60 minutes before a meal.
  2. Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water.
  3. Do not chew, crush, or break the capsule — this damages the enteric coating.
  4. Repeat up to three times daily, before each main meal.
  5. Do not exceed three capsules in any 24-hour period.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
IBS symptoms (cramps, bloating, wind) Adults and children aged 12+ 1 capsule (0.2 ml peppermint oil) Three times daily, before meals
IBS symptoms Under 12 years Not recommended Not applicable

If you are also looking for support with related digestive issues, our diarrhoea treatments collection includes a range of options that may complement your IBS management plan.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Buscomint?

 

Like all medicines, Buscomint can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and tend to resolve without treatment. If you are concerned about any side effect, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest or throat
  • Perianal irritation or a burning sensation around the back passage
  • Belching with a peppermint taste

Less common side effects (may affect fewer than 1 in 100 people):

  • Allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, or hives
  • Headache
  • Slow heart rate (bradycardia) — seek medical advice promptly if this occurs
  • Muscle tremor

If you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction — including swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing — stop taking Buscomint and seek emergency medical help immediately.

 

How Should You Store Buscomint?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and effectiveness of Buscomint throughout its shelf life. Follow these storage guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the carton or blister pack.
  • Do not store in a bathroom cabinet — humidity can affect the capsule coating.

If you have any unused or expired capsules, do not dispose of them in household waste or down the sink. Return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal. You might also find it helpful to browse our vitamins and supplements range if you're looking to support your overall digestive health alongside Buscomint.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Buscomint capsules online in the UK?

You can buy Buscomint 24 Soft Capsules directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £7.59. No prescription is required as Buscomint is an over-the-counter medicine available on general sale. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door.

How do peppermint oil capsules for IBS actually work?

Peppermint oil contains menthol, which relaxes the smooth muscle of the gut wall by blocking calcium channels — this reduces the painful spasms that cause IBS cramps. The enteric coating on Buscomint capsules ensures the oil is released in the intestines rather than the stomach, targeting the area where it's most needed. This mechanism is well-recognised in clinical guidelines for IBS management.

How do I take Buscomint step by step?

Take one Buscomint capsule 30 to 60 minutes before each main meal, up to three times a day. Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water — never chew or crush it, as this breaks the enteric coating and can cause heartburn. Do not take more than three capsules in 24 hours.

What is the correct dose of Buscomint for adults?

The recommended dose for adults and young people aged 12 and over is one capsule taken three times daily, each time 30 to 60 minutes before a meal. This gives a maximum daily dose of three capsules (0.6 ml peppermint oil). Always read the patient information leaflet before use.

What is the best time to take Buscomint capsules?

Buscomint works best when taken 30 to 60 minutes before your main meals — typically before breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Taking it before meals allows the enteric coating to dissolve at the right point in your digestive tract, so the peppermint oil reaches the intestines when gut activity is about to increase. Avoid taking it at the same time as antacids.

What are the side effects of Buscomint and how do I manage them?

The most commonly reported side effects are heartburn and a burning sensation around the back passage, both of which are usually mild and temporary. If heartburn is a problem, make sure you are not taking antacids within one hour of Buscomint, as this can dissolve the coating too early. If side effects persist or are troublesome, speak to your pharmacist.

Who should not take Buscomint capsules?

Buscomint is not suitable for children under 12, people with a known allergy to peppermint or menthol, or those with achlorhydria. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a condition such as GORD or hiatus hernia, consult your GP or pharmacist before use. Always check the full list of ingredients on the packaging.

Can I take Buscomint if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The safety of peppermint oil capsules during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established, so you should speak to your GP or midwife before taking Buscomint if you are pregnant or nursing. Your healthcare professional can help weigh up the potential benefits and risks for your individual situation. Do not self-medicate without seeking advice first.

What happens if I miss a dose of Buscomint?

If you miss a dose, simply skip it and take your next capsule at the usual time before your next meal — do not double up to compensate. Buscomint is taken as needed before meals rather than at fixed intervals, so missing one dose is unlikely to significantly affect your overall symptom control. Just continue with your regular schedule.

How long can I take Buscomint for?

Buscomint can be used for up to three months to manage ongoing IBS symptoms. If your symptoms have not improved after two weeks of regular use, it is worth speaking to your GP to review your diagnosis and treatment plan. Long-term use beyond three months should only continue under medical supervision.

Are there any medicines that interact with Buscomint?

The main interaction to be aware of is with antacids — taking them within one hour of Buscomint can break down the enteric coating prematurely, causing heartburn and reducing effectiveness. If you take medicines that affect gut motility or stomach acid, speak to your pharmacist before starting Buscomint. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are currently taking.

What are the alternatives to Buscomint for IBS?

Other over-the-counter options for IBS cramps include Buscopan IBS Relief (hyoscine butylbromide), which works via a different mechanism as an anticholinergic antispasmodic. You can browse the full range of IBS and cramps treatments at Cured Pharmacy to compare your options. Your GP may also recommend dietary changes or low-FODMAP approaches alongside any medication.

Is Buscomint suitable for children?

Buscomint is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. For children aged 12 and over, the adult dose applies, but it is still advisable to consult a pharmacist or GP before use in this age group. If your child is under 12 and experiencing IBS-like symptoms, seek medical advice for appropriate management.

What does the latest research say about peppermint oil for IBS?

Clinical evidence supports the use of peppermint oil as an effective antispasmodic for IBS, with multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses finding it significantly reduces abdominal pain compared to placebo. The NHS and NICE both acknowledge peppermint oil as a valid self-care option for IBS symptom management. Research continues to explore optimal formulations and dosing strategies.

Can I take Buscomint alongside pain relief medicines?

Buscomint is not known to interact directly with common over-the-counter pain relief medicines such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, but you should always check with your pharmacist before combining medicines. If you need additional support for abdominal discomfort, our pain relief collection includes a range of suitable options. Your pharmacist can advise on the safest combination for your needs.

How Should You Use Buscomint?

Buscomint soft capsules are straightforward to use, but following the correct method is important to get the most benefit and avoid unnecessary side effects. The enteric coating is there for a reason — it protects the peppermint oil until it reaches your intestines, so please do not interfere with it.

What Is the Correct Dose of Buscomint?

The dose of Buscomint is the same for all eligible users aged 12 and over. It is important not to exceed the maximum daily dose, as taking more will not improve symptom relief and may increase the risk of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the product.

When Is the Best Time to Use Buscomint?

Timing matters with Buscomint. Taking each capsule 30 to 60 minutes before a meal gives the enteric coating time to dissolve in the right part of your digestive tract, so the peppermint oil is released in the small intestine just as gut activity begins to increase after eating. Most people find it easiest to take a capsule before breakfast, lunch, and dinner as part of their daily routine.

Avoid taking Buscomint at the same time as antacids or indigestion remedies. These can neutralise the stomach acid that helps the enteric coating function correctly, potentially causing the capsule to dissolve too early and leading to heartburn.

How Long Can You Use Buscomint For?

Buscomint is suitable for short- to medium-term use to manage IBS symptoms. Most people use it for up to three months at a time. If you notice an improvement in your symptoms, you may be able to reduce the frequency of use over time — but do not stop abruptly if symptoms are still present.

If your symptoms have not improved after two weeks of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, stop taking Buscomint and speak to your GP. New or changing bowel symptoms should always be assessed by a healthcare professional to rule out other causes.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Buscomint?

Most people who take Buscomint tolerate it well, but like all medicines, it can cause side effects in some individuals. The most frequently reported ones are related to the peppermint oil reaching areas of the digestive tract where it can cause a mild irritant effect.

  • Heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest or throat
  • Perianal irritation or a burning feeling around the back passage
  • Belching with a peppermint taste or smell

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Buscomint?

Less common side effects occur in fewer people but are still worth being aware of. If you notice any of the following, speak to your pharmacist or GP for guidance.

  • Skin rash, itching, or hives (urticaria)
  • Headache
  • Muscle tremor
  • Slowed heart rate (bradycardia)
  • Nausea

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Buscomint?

Serious side effects from Buscomint are rare, but you should be aware of the signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Symptoms can include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, a sudden drop in blood pressure, or a widespread skin rash. If you experience any of these, stop taking Buscomint immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department.

A significantly slowed heart rate is also considered a serious effect. If you feel your heart beating unusually slowly or you feel faint or dizzy after taking Buscomint, seek medical advice promptly.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as heartburn, check that you are not taking antacids within one hour of Buscomint — this is the most common cause of premature coating dissolution and subsequent heartburn. Drinking a full glass of water when swallowing the capsule can also help. If side effects are persistent or affecting your quality of life, stop taking the capsules and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps improve medicine safety information for everyone.

Can Buscomint Interact With Other Medicines?

The most clinically relevant interaction is with antacids. Taking antacids within one hour of Buscomint can dissolve the enteric coating in the stomach rather than the intestines, reducing effectiveness and increasing the risk of heartburn. If you take medicines that reduce stomach acid — such as proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers — discuss this with your pharmacist before starting Buscomint, as these may also affect how the coating behaves. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines, supplements, and herbal remedies you are currently taking.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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