Indications
Trimebutine Maleate is used to relieve symptoms of functional bowel disorders, especially irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as cramping stomach pain, bloating, wind, diarrhoea, constipation or alternating bowel habits. It is also used for other digestive motility problems such as functional indigestion, and sometimes to help bowel movement return after abdominal surgery.
How It Works
Trimebutine acts on opioid receptors in the wall of the gut (not in the brain in normal doses) and on ion channels in gut muscle. This helps to regulate the movement of the stomach and intestine: it calms overactive spasms and can stimulate a sluggish bowel. It also reduces the sensitivity of the gut to pain.
Dosage and Administration
The usual adult dose is 100 mg to 200 mg three times a day by mouth, taken before meals. Do not take more than 600 mg a day. Follow the doctor’s advice for children and for how long to take it. Injectable forms are given by a doctor or nurse.
Interactions
No major interactions are well known. It may add to the effect of other medicines that affect gut movement, such as anticholinergics or opioids. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take.
Contraindications
Do not take if you are allergic to Trimebutine or any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
Side effects are uncommon and usually mild. They may include dry mouth, bad taste, nausea, diarrhoea or constipation, indigestion, drowsiness, tiredness, dizziness, headache, and skin rash.
Get urgent medical help if you have a severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash, or if you have severe stomach pain, blood in your stool or black stools.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is not enough information on safety in pregnancy, especially in the first three months, so it should be used only if a doctor advises it. It is not known whether it passes into breast milk; it is best avoided while breastfeeding unless the doctor says otherwise.
Precautions and Warnings
IBS-like symptoms can sometimes be caused by other bowel diseases. See a doctor if you are over 50 with new symptoms, or have weight loss, blood in the stool, fever, anaemia or symptoms that wake you at night. Do not drive if you feel drowsy or dizzy.
Overdose
Overdose information is limited. Too much may cause drowsiness or stomach upset. Seek medical advice; treatment is supportive.
Therapeutic Class
Gastrointestinal motility regulator (antispasmodic)
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.