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Trimethobenzamide Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects Explained
Summary of Key Points
Trimethobenzamide is a prescription medication used to manage nausea and vomiting caused by various conditions, such as motion sickness, gastroenteritis, and post-operative recovery. It works by influencing the brain’s vomiting center to alleviate nausea. Trimethobenzamide is available in both capsule and injectable forms. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. You may also consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for personalized care.
Names of Medication
Tigan (Trimethobenzamide)
The generic name refers to the active ingredient in the medication, listed in parentheses. Generic names are used to identify the drug, regardless of the brand name.
Pharmacologic Category
Antiemetic (medications that prevent nausea and vomiting)
Trimethobenzamide Dosage
Trimethobenzamide is prescribed to treat nausea and vomiting associated with several conditions. Below is the recommended dosing for adults based on the specific condition. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them before making any changes to your dosage. You can also schedule a telemedicine visit with one of our providers for further guidance.
Nausea and Vomiting (General)
Oral: 300 mg by mouth three to four times daily.
Intramuscular (IM) Injection: 200 mg IM three to four times daily.
Trimethobenzamide for Motion Sickness
Oral: 300 mg by mouth three to four times daily, starting 30 minutes before travel.
Gastroenteritis
Oral: 300 mg by mouth three to four times daily until symptoms resolve.
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea
Intramuscular (IM) Injection: 200 mg IM three to four times daily as needed for nausea control.
Post-Operative Nausea
Intramuscular (IM) Injection: 200 mg IM as needed, up to three to four times daily.
Vertigo
Oral: 300 mg by mouth three to four times daily.
Migraine-Associated Nausea
Oral: 300 mg by mouth three to four times daily as needed for nausea relief.
Labyrinthitis and Vestibular Disorders
Oral: 300 mg by mouth three to four times daily.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Capsules: 300 mg
Intramuscular Injection: 100 mg/mL in 2 mL ampules
Administration Instructions
Trimethobenzamide can be taken orally in capsule form or administered as an intramuscular injection. If you are taking the oral form, swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. For injections, a healthcare provider will typically administer the dose into a muscle. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully, and avoid adjusting your dose without consulting them first. If you have any questions or concerns, schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for further guidance.
Contraindications
A contraindication is a specific condition or situation where a medication should not be used because it could cause harm. If you have any of the following conditions, you should not take Trimethobenzamide, or you should discuss it with your healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits.
Hypersensitivity to Trimethobenzamide: If you have had an allergic reaction to Trimethobenzamide or any of its ingredients, you should not take this medication. Allergic reactions can cause symptoms such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing, which can be life-threatening.
Severe Liver Disease: Trimethobenzamide is processed by the liver. If you have severe liver disease, your body may not be able to metabolize the medication properly, leading to increased side effects or toxicity.
Severe Kidney Disease: Similar to liver disease, if your kidneys are not functioning well, your body may have difficulty eliminating Trimethobenzamide, which can result in harmful levels of the drug in your system.
History of Seizures: Trimethobenzamide can lower the seizure threshold, meaning it could increase the likelihood of seizures. If you have a history of epilepsy or other seizure disorders, this medication may not be safe for you.
Drug-to-Drug Interactions
Trimethobenzamide can interact with other medications, potentially causing harmful effects or reducing the effectiveness of either drug. Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Opioids: Medications such as oxycodone (OxyContin) and hydrocodone (Vicodin) can enhance the sedative effects of Trimethobenzamide, leading to excessive drowsiness or difficulty breathing.
Antihistamines: Drugs like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) can also increase drowsiness when taken with Trimethobenzamide.
Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants, such as amitriptyline (Elavil) or fluoxetine (Prozac), may interact with Trimethobenzamide, increasing the risk of side effects like dizziness or confusion.
Antipsychotics: Medications such as haloperidol (Haldol) or risperidone (Risperdal) can increase the risk of movement disorders or other neurological side effects when taken with Trimethobenzamide.
Trimethobenzamide in Pregnancy
Is it safe to take Trimethobenzamide when pregnant?
Trimethobenzamide is classified as a Category C medication for pregnancy by the FDA. This means that while there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women, animal studies have indicated potential risks to the fetus. However, in certain cases, the benefits of using the medication may outweigh these risks. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is crucial to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of Trimethobenzamide. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you make an informed decision about using Trimethobenzamide to manage nausea during pregnancy.
Trimethobenzamide while Breastfeeding
Is it safe to take Trimethobenzamide while breastfeeding?
There is limited data on whether Trimethobenzamide passes into breast milk. Due to the possibility of serious side effects in a nursing infant, it is generally advised to avoid this medication while breastfeeding unless absolutely necessary. If you are breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider to explore safer alternatives. You can also speak with one of our telemedicine providers to discuss other treatment options for nausea while breastfeeding.
Estimated Cost of Trimethobenzamide Medication
The cost of a 30-day supply of Trimethobenzamide without insurance can vary. However, with a GoodRx coupon, the price typically ranges from $15 to $50, depending on the pharmacy. Be sure to check for discounts and coupons to help reduce the cost of your prescription. If you need assistance managing prescription costs, our telemedicine providers can guide you through available options.
Possible Alternatives to Trimethobenzamide
Depending on the condition being treated, several alternative treatments or lifestyle changes may help manage your symptoms. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Our telemedicine providers are available to discuss these alternatives with you.
Nausea and Vomiting
Alternatives include ginger supplements, acupressure wristbands, or medications such as ondansetron (Zofran) or promethazine (Phenergan). Dietary adjustments, like eating smaller, more frequent meals, may also help alleviate nausea.
Motion Sickness
Over-the-counter options like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine (Antivert) can be effective for motion sickness. Behavioral techniques, such as focusing on the horizon or sitting in the front seat of a vehicle, may also help reduce symptoms. Trimethobenzamide may be considered for motion sickness in certain cases, but consult your healthcare provider to determine the best option for you.
Gastroenteritis
Staying hydrated is essential when managing gastroenteritis. Oral rehydration solutions and probiotics can help alleviate symptoms. In some cases, loperamide (Imodium) may be used to control diarrhea.
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea
Medications like ondansetron (Zofran) or aprepitant (Emend) are commonly used to manage nausea caused by chemotherapy. Acupuncture and relaxation techniques may also provide relief.
Post-Operative Nausea
Alternatives to Trimethobenzamide for post-operative nausea include ondansetron (Zofran) or dexamethasone. Non-drug approaches, such as deep breathing exercises, may also help reduce nausea after surgery.
Vertigo
Medications like meclizine (Antivert) or diazepam (Valium) may be used to manage vertigo. Vestibular rehabilitation exercises can also be effective in reducing symptoms of dizziness and imbalance.
Migraine
Anti-nausea medications such as metoclopramide (Reglan) or prochlorperazine (Compazine) may be used to treat nausea associated with migraines. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding known migraine triggers, can also help reduce the frequency of attacks.
Labyrinthitis
Treatment for labyrinthitis may include corticosteroids or antiviral medications, depending on the underlying cause. Vestibular rehabilitation exercises can help improve balance and reduce dizziness associated with this condition.
Vestibular Disorders
Medications like diazepam (Valium) or betahistine (Serc) may be prescribed for vestibular disorders. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy is often recommended to help manage symptoms and improve balance.
Recent Updates on Trimethobenzamide Research
Recent studies on Trimethobenzamide have focused on its effectiveness in treating nausea and vomiting, particularly in post-operative and chemotherapy settings. While Trimethobenzamide remains a useful option for many patients, newer medications like ondansetron (Zofran) are more commonly used due to their lower risk of side effects. Ongoing research is also examining the long-term safety of Trimethobenzamide, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic conditions. If you have concerns about the latest research or how it may impact your treatment, our telemedicine providers are available to discuss your options in detail.
