Metoclopramide is a medication used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux and diabetic gastric stasis in adults. It helps by speeding up how quickly food moves through the stomach and intestines, which can reduce feelings of nausea and fullness. You typically take it as a liquid solution, starting with 10 to 15 mg up to four times a day, 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime, but the maximum dose can be up to 20 mg if needed. It's important to know that metoclopramide should not be used if you have certain conditions like gastrointestinal bleeding or if you are sensitive to the drug. Additionally, if you are taking other medications that can cause similar side effects, such as certain antipsychotics, you should be cautious, as they may increase the risk of side effects.
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Uses
- Symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux in adults.
- Diabetic gastroparesis in adults.
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Dosage
10 mg to 15 mg up to 4 times daily for gastroesophageal reflux. 10 mg 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime for diabetic gastroparesis for 2 to 8 weeks.
Elderly patients may require lower doses of 5 mg.
Do not use for more than 12 weeks.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
RestlessnessdrowsinessfatigueinsomniaheadacheTardive dyskinesia
Serious
neuroleptic malignant syndromemental depression
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Risk of tardive dyskinesia increases with longer use.
- May cause mental depression, especially in those with a history of depression.
- Extrapyramidal symptoms may occur, especially in younger patients.
- Use cautiously in patients with Parkinson's disease.
- Avoid use with alcohol, sedatives, or narcotics.
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Drug interactions
- Anticholinergic drugsreduces gastrointestinal motilityCaution
- Alcoholincreases sedation effectsMonitor
- Sedativesincreases sedation effectsMonitor
- Narcoticsincreases sedation effectsMonitor
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitorsuse cautiously due to hypertension riskCaution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
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