Metoclopramide

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

 

Popular brand names:

Adco Contromet, Clopamon, Maxolon

Drug group:

Gastrointestinal motility regulator and anti-emetic drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

 

What does it do?

Metoclopramide is a powerful anti-emetic and is most commonly used in the prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting, especially with migraines and chemotherapy.

It is also used to relieve symptoms of heartburn caused by acid reflux into the oesophagus.

 

How does it work?

Metoclopramide has a direct action on the gastrointestinal tract – it encourages normal propulsion of food through the stomach and intestine.

 

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Usually taken 3 x daily (2x daily for SR preparations)
• Total daily dose for adults: 15–30mg daily (higher for nausea caused by anticancer drugs)

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 1 hour                  

How long will the effects last?

6–8 hours                           
       

When should I stop using it?

Can be safely stopped as soon as no longer needed.
          

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Only used long-term for certain gastrointestinal disorders (under specialist supervision).

                                                                         

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: drowsiness
• Less common: restlessness, diarrhoea, muscle spasms/tremors/rigidity, rash
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: severe drowsiness, muscle spasms of the head/neck, rash

 

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney problems, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, porphyria, phaeochromocytoma
• Other medicines: Sedatives (including benzodiazepines, antihistamines, antidepressants, opioid analgesics), lithium, ciclosporin, drugs for parkinsonism, antipsychotics, anticholinergic drugs, aspirin, paracetamol
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety in pregnancy not established, normal doses are unlikely to negatively affect the breastfed baby
• Children: Reduced dose necessary, but usually avoided in patients younger than 20 years (higher risk of muscle spasm of the head/neck)
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause drowsiness
• Alcohol: Avoid, alcohol may reduce the beneficial effects and increase the sedative effects of the drug