Drug Uses

Metoclopramide is used in short term treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in certain patients who do not respond to other therapy. It is also used in the treatment of symptoms of a certain digestive problem in diabetic patients (diabetic gastroparesis). It might also be used by your doctor in other cases as he deems fit.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.

You may choose to take Metoclopramide 30 minutes before a meal.

It is very important that you complete the dosage schedule and do not interrupt it in between without seeking prior consultation from your doctor.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Metoclopramide is categorized as a gastrointestinal stimulant and anti-nauseant. It helps to move food and acid out of the stomach more quickly by increasing the movement of the stomach and intestines. It also helps to decrease nausea.

Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.

Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store Metoclopramide at room, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.

Warning/Precautions

Doctors advise against using Metoclopramide if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you have conditions like:
seizures (e.g., epilepsy); bleeding, blockage, or perforation in your stomach or intestines; or tumors on your adrenal gland (pheochromocytoma); taking cabergoline or pergolide;

There are some medicines that may interact with Metoclopramide like: phenothiazines (e.g., chlorpromazine). It may cause extrapyramidal reactions (abnormal, involuntary muscle movements of the head, neck, or limbs).

Metoclopramide may increase the risk of getting dizziness or drowsiness. This risk greatly increases if you combine it with alcoholic beverages. So please avoid them while using Metoclopramide. Also, avoid undertaking any tasks which require mental alertness (driving, handling heavy machinery etc).

Doctors may prescribe certain laboratory tests like liver and kidney function tests to determine how you have responded to treatment and to gauge the severity of the side effects of Metoclopramide. Please Keep all lab appointments and do not miss any tests.

The medicine may affect blood sugar levels in diabetes patients.

Metoclopramide may cause a fatal syndrome called Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Its symptoms include fever; stiff muscles; confusion; abnormal thinking; fast or irregular heartbeat; and sweating.

Pregnancy Info

If you are expecting a child or are planning to have a child in the near future, then consult your doctor before using Metoclopramide to discuss any possible threats to the unborn baby.

If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using Metoclopramide as it is excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.