Both prescription and nonprescription medicines, as well as dietary supplements, can cause bloating and gas as side effects. Examples include:

• Narcotic pain medicines.
• Medicines that are used to treat diarrhea, such as Imodium, Kaopectate, and Lomotil.
• Fiber supplements that contain psyllium, such as Fiberall or Metamucil. These supplements often cause a feeling of bloating and gas, especially if you use too much too quickly.
• Bulk-producing agents, such as Citrucel or FiberCon.
• Multivitamins and iron pills.

If you think that your gas, burping, or bloating may be caused by a medicine or supplement:

• Call the doctor who prescribed the medicine before you take the next dose to find out if you should stop taking the medicine or take a different one. An appointment may not be needed.
• If you are taking a medicine or supplement that was not prescribed by a doctor, stop taking it. Call your doctor if you feel that you need to continue taking the medicine or need help controlling your symptoms.