Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 18, 2022.
Metoclopramide treatment can cause tardive dyskinesia, a serious movement disorder that is often irreversible. Risk is increased with duration of treatment and total cumulative dose. Discontinue metoclopramide therapy in patients who develop signs or symptoms of tardive dyskinesia. There is no known treatment for tardive dyskinesia, although symptoms may lessen or resolve after metoclopramide discontinuation. Prolonged treatment with metoclopramide (greater than 12 weeks) should be avoided in all but rare cases where therapeutic benefit outweighs the risks .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Reglan
Available Dosage Forms:
- Solution
Therapeutic Class: Antiemetic
Pharmacologic Class: Dopamine Antagonist
Uses for metoclopramide
Metoclopramide injection is a medicine that increases the movements or contractions of the stomach and intestines. It is used to help diagnose certain problems in the stomach or intestines. Metoclopramide is also used to prevent the nausea and vomiting that may occur after surgery or after treatment with cancer medicines. Another medicine may be used with metoclopramide injection to prevent side effects that may occur when it is used with cancer medicines.
Metoclopramide injection is also used to relieve symptoms (such as nausea, vomiting, heartburn, a feeling of fullness after meals, and loss of appetite) that are caused by a stomach problem called gastroparesis in patients with diabetes.
Metoclopramide is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using metoclopramide
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For metoclopramide, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to metoclopramide or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredi..
