Type of Drug
Digestive tract (gastrointestinal) stimulant.
How The Drug Works
These drugs stimulate the contractions/movements of the stomach and small intestine.
Uses
To treat symptoms of diabetic gastroparesis (eg, nausea, vomiting, heart burn, persistent fullness after meals and appetite loss).
To treat the nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy. To treat gastroesophageal reflux (reflux of stomach contents into the throat).
Other Uses : Occasionally doctors may prescribe metoclopramide to improve breast milk secretion, to improve response to migraine medications, for nausea and vomiting, to treat anorexia nervosa, to treat gastric ulcers, for intestinal blockage after operations, diabetic cystoparesis (weak bladder), and bleeding from the esophagus.
Diabetics: Metoclopramide affects the movement of food from the stomach to the intestines and also the absorption of food. Insulin dose may need to be adjusted.
Pregnancy: Metoclopramide crosses the placenta. Studies in pregnant women have not shown a risk to the fetus. However, no drug should be used during pregnancy unless clearly needed.
Breastfeeding: Metoclopramide appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.
Children: Metoclopramide has been used in children. However, muscle spasms of the neck, face and jaw, and involuntary movement of the eyes have been reported more commonly in children.
Drug Interactions:
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or if you are planning to take any over-the-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements with metoclopramide. Doses of one or both drugs may need to be modified or a different drug may need to be prescribed The following drugs and drug classes interact with metoclopramide.
- Acetaminophen (eg, Tylenol)
- Narcotic pain relievers
- Alcohol (eg, codeine)
- Anticholinergics (eg, atropine)
- Butyrophenone (eg, Haldol)
- Cimetidine (Tagamet)
- Sedatives (eg, flurazepam)
Side Effects
Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many metoclopramide users experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:
Digestive Tract: Nausea; diarrhea.
Nervous System: Restlessness; drowsiness; fatigue; weakness; involuntary trembling, jerky movements; shaking muscle spasms; dizziness; anxiety; sleeplessness; headache; depression; hallucinations; facial grimacing; slurred speech; teeth grinding.
Other: Increased blood pressure; excessive or spontaneous flow of breast milk; stopping of menstrual period; nipple tenderness; breast enlargement in males; impotence in males; rash; asthma-like symptoms; impaired vision; uncontrolled urination or bowel movements; difficult breathing; decreased blood pressure; neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS).
Guidelines for Use
- May cause drowsiness. Use caution when driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness.
- Take 30 minutes before each meal.
- Notify your doctor if involuntary movement of the eyes, face or limbs occurs.