Drug Name: Metoclopramide
Brand Names: Reglan, Maxolon, Degan
Generic Name: Metoclopramide (met-oh-kloe-PRA-mide)
Uses: Metoclopramide is a medicine used for the treatment of persistent hiccups, heartburn, vascular headaches, and nausea and vomiting as a result of chemotherapy for cancer patients. It is also used to stimulate peristalsis and to prevent fluid from going into the lungs during surgery. The drug works by increasing the peristaltic movement of the stomach and the intestines. Metoclopramide is also used to stimulate lactation by inhibiting the action of the hormone prolactin.
How to use: Metoclopramide comes in the form of tablets, solutions and concentrates to be taken orally and injectables. For the tablet form, it should be taken 30 minutes before meals or at bedtime, depending on your doctor’s prescription. For the concentrate form, it should be mixed with water, soda, juice or applesauce.
Side Effects: Among the side effects of Metoclopramide include muscle spasms of the jaw, neck and back; clay colored stools; dizziness or fainting; shuffling walk; trembling and shaking of hands; convulsions; abdominal pain or tenderness; fever; difficulty breathing; chills; dark urine; difficulty speaking or swallowing; fast or irregular heartbeat, Other side effects include general feeling of tiredness or weakness, loss of bladder control, sore throat, skin rash, headache, increase in blood pressure, loss of appetite, unusual nervousness, unusually pale skin, rapid or worm-like movements of tongue, increased sweating and yellow eyes or skin.
Precautions: Metoclopramide should not be given to patients who are allergic to procaine or procainamide and to any other substances like dyes or preservatives. It should also not be given to patients suffering from asthma, abdominal or stomach bleeding, liver cirrhosis, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, mental depression and epilepsy as it may increase the risk of seizure.
Drug Interaction: Metoclopramide may cause drowsiness in patients receiving central nervous system (CNS) depressants such as anti-histamines or medicines for allergies, colds and hay fever. Metoclopramide may also interact with tranquilizers, sedatives, sleeping tablets, barbiturates, muscle relaxants, analgesics or narcotics, medication for seizures and anesthetics. Please inform your doctor if you are taking any of these medications before taking Metoclopramide.
Overdose: Severe drowsiness, confusion, headache, restlessness and seizures are among the symptoms of Metoclopramide overdose. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms are present.
Notes: Metoclopramide may cause dizziness, lightheadedness and drowsiness on some people. Please refrain from driving, operate machines or do dangerous things if you are under this medication.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as possible. But if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Important Note: Metoclopramide may have an adverse reaction if taken along with alcohol. Please refrain from taking any alcoholic beverages while you are under this medication.
Storage: Store Metoclopramide tablets at room temperature away from heat and direct light. For the concentrate and solution forms, store them in a refrigerator but do not freeze.
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