Definition: what is trimebutine?

Trimebutine is a antispasmodic drug. It exerts an action on the smooth muscles of the intestine to promote their relaxation and relieve abdominal pain associated with spasms. In addition, this molecule stimulates intestinal motility, which promotes the progression of feces within the digestive tract.

Indications: why take trimebutine?

Trimebutine is indicated in the treatment of symptoms related to functional bowel disorders, namely abdominal pain, transit disorders and intestinal discomfort. These signs are most often part of a background of constipation, irritable bowel syndrome or bloating. Trimebutine medicines should be given for a short time, usually 3 days. In the absence of other symptoms, a 7-day treatment may be considered.

In which medicines is trimebutine found?

Trimebutine comes in the form of tablets or granules for oral suspension. The commercial specialty that contains it is Débridat®, in dosages of 100 mg, 200 mg and 4.8 mg/mL. The tablets have many generics:

• Debricalm®
• Transacalm®
• Trimebutine (in 100 mg and 200 mg) marketed by several laboratories: Almus, Arrow, Biogaran, Mylan, Sandoz, Zentiva, etc.

With or without a prescription?

All drugs containing 200 mg of trimebutine are dispensed only on medical prescription. However, some specialties containing 100 mg of trimebutine are available without a prescription:

• Debricalm®
• Trimebutine 100mg Consulting Biogaran
• Trimebutine 100mg mylan board
• Trimebutine 100mg Viatris Consulting

What are the side effects of trimebutine?

Side effects from taking trimebutine are uncommon. Allergic reactions such as itching, hives or even exceptionally anaphylactic shock have been reported. Of the rashes and eczema can also manifest. In case of overdose, the occurrence of drowsiness and cardiac disturbances is possible.

In a diabetic, the amount of sugar in trimebutine should be taken into account

What are the contraindications of trimebutine?

Trimebutine is contraindicated in case of allergy to any of the components of the drug and in children under 2 years of age. Note that the tablets are exclusively reserved for adults. Only the oral suspension is indicated for children from 2 years of age. Due to the presence of lactose in the tablets, their administration is prohibited in patients with:

• galactose intolerance
• lactase deficiency (enzyme used to digest milk)
• a defect in the absorption of galactose or glucose

The oral suspension contains sucrose, therefore it should not be taken in case of fructose intolerance, sugar or sugar deficiency isomaltase (rare disease) or disorders of intestinal absorption of glucose and galactose. In a diabetic, the amount of sugar should be taken into account in the food intake. In the absence of sufficient scientific data, the use of trimebutine is Avoid in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Sources:
-Public drug database
-ANSM