Metoclopramide is a drug used to treat certain digestive disorders that cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal discomfort. This drug is sold under the brand name Reglan and is available in oral and injection forms. Before taking metoclopramide, understand its uses, possible side effects and drug interactions associated with its use.
Function
Metoclopramide helps speed up the rate at which food empties from the stomach into the intestines. It also increases the muscular contractions of the upper digestive system. These actions make metoclopramide an important tool for treating gastroesophageal reflux and delayed stomach emptying in people who have diabetes. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this drug can also be used to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting that are related to medical treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Precautions
Metoclopramide allergy is possible, so this drug should not be taken by anyone with a sensitivity to any of its ingredients. Do not take this drug while pregnant or breast-feeding unless it is recommended by a medical professional. Metoclopramide can cause drowsiness, so people using the drug should not drive or operate machinery until its effects are known. Do not mix this drug with alcohol, as alcohol can increase the drowsiness caused by metoclopramide. This drug should be used with caution in elderly people, as they can be more susceptible to side effects such as drowsiness, uncontrolled shaking, confusion and uncontrollable movements of the hands, face and mouth.
Contraindications
Some people should not use metoclopramide due to pre-existing medical conditions. People with intestinal blockages or bleeding, seizures and pheochromocytoma (a rare adrenal tumor) should avoid this drug. This drug should be used with caution in people who have heart rhythm disorders, kidney problems, severe liver problems, Parkinson's disease, diabetes, chronic heart failure and NADH-cytochrome b5 reductase deficiency (a blood enzyme problem). Pregnant women should not take this drug unless it is clearly needed for medical treatment.
Side Effects
Drowsiness, tiredness and headache are the most common side effects of metoclopramide. Less common side effects can include constipation, sleep problems, dizziness dry mouth and diarrhea. If these side effects occur, they should be reported to a doctor. Serious side effects can occur as a result of using metoclopramide. These side effects include decreased sexual ability, mood changes, mask-like facial expression, agitation, restlessness, thoughts of suicide, drooling, shuffling walk, enlarged breasts, unusual nipple discharge and urinary incontinence. Rare side effects of metoclopramide include signs of liver problems, yellow of the skin or eyes, signs of serious infection, dark urine and severe abdominal pain.
Drug Interactions
Some drugs can block the actions of metoclopramide, making it ineffective. Examples of such drugs include scopolamine, diphenhydramine and benztropine. Do not take this drug with anti-seizure drugs, MAO inhibitors, antihistamines, sleep medications, narcotic pain medications or psychiatric medications without consulting a medical professional. Metoclopramide may reduce the absorption of certain drugs from the stomach. Drugs that are absorbed from the intestines, such as alcohol and acetaminophen, can have increased absorption when taken with metoclopramide.
Warning
Metoclopramide has been associated with the development of a very serious nervous system problem known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a neurological disorder that is usually caused by adverse reactions to antipsychotic or neuroleptic drugs. Seek immediate medical attention if any of the signs and symptoms of neuroleptic malignant syndrome occur. They include sweating, high fever, stupor, unstable blood pressure and muscular rigidity. Metoclopramide should be stopped and replaced with a different type of drug if neuroleptic malignant syndrome occurs with its use.
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