Skip to main content

What is Trimebutine used for?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on July 17, 2025.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Trimebutine is an antispasmodic that is used to relieve abdominal pain and help restore normal bowel function in conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or paralytic ileus after abdominal surgery. Trimebutine is not an FDA approved medicine and is not available in the United States, but it is available in Canada, Mexico, France, and several other countries.

Trimebutine is pronounced try-meh-BYOU-teen. The brand name in Canada is Modulon.

How does trimebutine work?

Trimebutine regulates intestinal movement by acting on multiple targets in the digestive system. It activates mu-opioid receptors and triggers the release of gut hormones like motilin. It controls calcium flow into intestinal muscle cells which helps coordinate normal contractions while preventing painful spasms. This speeds up stomach emptying and improves coordinated gut movements, making it useful for treating digestive motility disorders.

Trimebutine belongs to the drug class called antimuscarinic antispasmodics. It may also be called a spasmolytic or a prokinetic agent.

Side effects

The most common side effects of trimebutine are:

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any serious side effects such as:

Serious allergic reactions to this drug are rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as:

The medication can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which alcohol or marijuana may make worse. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Before taking

Before taking trimebutine, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions including if you:

Pregnancy

Trimebutine should not be used during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking it, contact your doctor immediately.

Related questions

Breastfeeding

The medication may pass into breast milk, so consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

How do I take trimebutine?

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

Trimebutine is rapidly absorbed and peak plasma concentration levels are reached within 1 hour. You should expect symptom relief within 1 hour.

What is the dose of trimebutine?

Dose of trimebutine for irritable bowel syndrome or paralytic ileus after abdominal surgery:

Is trimebutine available in the U.S.?

Trimebutine is not FDA-approved and is not available in the United States. There is no equivalent of trimebutine in the U.S..

Other antispasmodics available in the U.S. include peppermint oil, hyoscyamine, and dicyclomine.

What countries is trimebutine available in?

Trimebutine is available in Canada and the following other countries:

What are some brand names for trimebutine?

Brand names for trimebutine include:

Synonyms of trimebutine include:

References

Read next

What is mebeverine used for?

Mebeverine is an antispasmodic that may be used to relieve stomach cramps and spasms associated with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome. Depending on the country, it may be available on prescription or over the counter from a pharmacy. Continue reading

How often does diarrhea occur with Linzess?

In studies with Linzess, the number of people who experienced diarrhea differed based on why they were receiving Linzess and the dose they were taking. In general, diarrhea may occur in up to 20% of patients taking Linzess, may be more frequent with higher doses and some patients may need to stop treatment due to this side effect. Continue reading

What type of pain does fibromyalgia cause?

Common types of pain felt by people with fibromyalgia include ongoing and widespread muscle and soft tissue pain, joint pain, and stiffness that is not due to any specific muscle or joint damage. Continue reading

See also:

Related medical questions

Related support groups