Social Psychiatry, Vol. 54 No. 2, 2026.
Meeting abstract
https://doi.org/10.24869/spsih.2026.109
Neuromodulators as a Common Language Between Gastroenterology and Psychiatry in the Treatment of Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction
Božo Radić
; Poliklinika Amruševa, Milana Amruša 6, 100000 Zagreb, Croatia
*
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Introduction: Disorders of gut–brain interaction
(DGBI) are very common and represent an important
part of gastroenterological practice. Among
the most frequent are functional dyspepsia and
irritable bowel syndrome. Rome V emphasizes a
patient-centered approach, positive (affirmative)
diagnosis, and the integration of pharmacological,
behavioral, and dietary interventions. Aim:
To present the clinical approach to patients with
DGBI, especially those with persistent symptoms,
pronounced functional impairment, and psychiatric
or chronic pain comorbidities, and to explain
the role of central neuromodulators and the collaboration
between gastroenterologists and psychiatrists.
Content: The development and persistence
of symptoms are influenced by disturbances of
gastrointestinal motility and sensitivity, visceral
hypersensitivity, altered processing of afferent signals, and cognitive and emotional responses to
bodily sensations. Anxiety and depressive disorders,
sleep disorders, migraine, fibromyalgia, and
other chronic pain syndromes are common comorbidities.
Their presence does not mean that gastrointestinal
symptoms are psychogenic, but it may
be associated with greater functional burden and
more complex treatment. Central neuromodulators
act on signal processing along the gut–brain
axis and are used to modulate visceral sensitivity,
pain, and other DGBI symptoms, regardless of the
presence of a psychiatric disorder. The choice of
medication is tailored to the dominant symptoms
and comorbidities. Conclusion: A patient with
DGBI does not need two separate treatment plans,
but rather a coordinated approach by the gastroenterologist
and the psychiatrist.
Keywords
gastroenterology; neuromodulators; psychiatry
Hrčak ID:
352227
URI
Publication date:
15.6.2026.
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