Tigan medication, also known as trimethobenzamide, is a prescription drug used to treat nausea and vomiting. It belongs to a class of medications called antiemetics, which work by affecting the vomiting center in the brain. Tigan is available in various forms, including capsules, injections, and suppositories. The medication is typically prescribed for the treatment of nausea and vomiting caused by various conditions, such as gastroenteritis, cancer chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
How Tigan Medication Works
Tigan medication works by blocking the action of a chemical called dopamine, which is involved in the vomiting reflex. By blocking dopamine, Tigan reduces the stimulation of the vomiting center in the brain, thereby decreasing the likelihood of nausea and vomiting. The medication is also thought to have a direct effect on the stomach and intestines, helping to reduce muscle contractions and inflammation that can contribute to nausea and vomiting.
Uses of Tigan Medication
Tigan medication is used to treat a variety of conditions that cause nausea and vomiting. Some of the most common uses of Tigan include:
- Treatment of nausea and vomiting caused by gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu
- Treatment of nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy and radiation therapy
- Treatment of nausea and vomiting caused by surgery and anesthesia
- Treatment of nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness
| Condition | Dosage |
|---|---|
| Gastroenteritis | 300-400 mg every 4-6 hours as needed |
| Cancer chemotherapy | 300-400 mg every 4-6 hours as needed |
| Radiation therapy | 300-400 mg every 4-6 hours as needed |
| Surgery and anesthesia | 100-200 mg 1-2 hours before surgery |
| Motion sickness | 100-200 mg 1-2 hours before travel |
Key Points
- Tigan medication is used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by various conditions
- The medication works by blocking the action of dopamine and reducing the stimulation of the vomiting center in the brain
- Tigan is available in various forms, including capsules, injections, and suppositories
- The medication should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional due to potential side effects and interactions
- Tigan can be used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by gastroenteritis, cancer chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, and motion sickness
Side Effects of Tigan Medication
Like all medications, Tigan can cause side effects. Some of the most common side effects of Tigan include:
- Drowsiness and dizziness
- Headache and fatigue
- Constipation and diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting (ironically, Tigan can sometimes cause the very symptoms it is intended to treat)
- Allergic reactions, such as hives and itching
Interactions with Other Medications
Tigan medication can interact with other medications, including:
- Antihistamines, which can increase the risk of drowsiness and dizziness
- Opioid pain medications, which can increase the risk of constipation and respiratory depression
- Antidepressant medications, which can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome (a potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive levels of serotonin in the body)
What is the typical dosage of Tigan medication for nausea and vomiting caused by gastroenteritis?
+The typical dosage of Tigan medication for nausea and vomiting caused by gastroenteritis is 300-400 mg every 4-6 hours as needed.
Can Tigan medication be used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness?
+Yes, Tigan medication can be used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness. The typical dosage is 100-200 mg 1-2 hours before travel.
What are the potential side effects of Tigan medication?
+The potential side effects of Tigan medication include drowsiness and dizziness, headache and fatigue, constipation and diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and allergic reactions.
Meta Description: Tigan medication is used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by various conditions. Learn about its uses, dosage, side effects, and interactions with other medications.
