Trimethobenzamide

Trimethobenzamide is a medication frequently used as an antiemetic to prevent nausea and vomiting. It is often prescribed for patients with gastroenteritis, medication-induced nausea, and other illnesses. Trimethobenzamide is generally considered the most potent antiemetic that does not have effects on the serotonergic, dopaminergic, or histaminergic systems, so it has a lower likelihood of causing undesired side effects. In the United States, it requires a prescription.

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Mechanism of action

Although the specific mechanism through which trimethobenzamide functions is unknown, it is believed to affect the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) of the medulla oblongata.

Side effects

Possible side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, muscle cramps, and blurred vision. More serious adverse effects include skin rash, tremors, parkinsonism, and jaundice.

Formulations

Trimethobenzamide is marketed under the brand names Tebamide and Tigan, manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline and King Pharmaceuticals, respectively. It is available as oral capsules and injectable formulations.

Trimethobenzamide was also available as a rectal suppository, but such formulations were banned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on April 6, 2007 due to unproven efficacy.^[1]

References