Metoclopramide (
Reglan®) is a prescription medication that is approved for the following uses:
This article focuses on the tablet and oral solution forms of metoclopramide. Injectable versions of this medication are also available and are approved for additional uses, such as for preventing nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy or surgeries.
Potential Side Effects of Metoclopramide
As with any medicine, side effects are possible. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. Serious side effects are less common.
Some of the possible side effects include, but are not limited to:
(Click Metoclopramide Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Metoclopramide?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Metoclopramide has several actions in the digestive tract. It causes the esophageal sphincter (which closes the opening from the stomach up to the esophagus) to become more tight, while causing the pyloric sphincter (which closes the opening from the stomach out to the intestines) to relax. It increases the muscular
contractions of the stomach and small intestines. All of these actions work together to help food move through the stomach more quickly (which is why metoclopramide is effective for
diabetic gastroparesis treatment). Metoclopramide has little or no activity in the
colon.
Metoclopramide helps with
GERD by preventing the stomach contents from refluxing back up the esophagus, since it increases the tightness of the esophageal sphincter.
Metoclopramide helps to relieve nausea and vomiting by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. Dopamine can activate the part of the brain that controls nausea and vomiting, and blocking the receptors helps to alleviate nausea and vomiting symptoms.
When and How to Take Metoclopramide
Some general considerations include the following:
- Metoclopramide comes in tablet, oral solution (liquid), and injectable form. The tablets are usually taken four times a day (30 minutes before meals and at bedtime). In some situations, less frequent dosing may be appropriate.
- Metoclopramide is not approved to be used longer than 12 weeks at a time.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed.
The dose of metoclopramide that your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- The medical condition being treated
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may currently be taking.
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
What If I Take an Overdose of Metoclopramide?
People who take an overdose may experience effects such as (but not limited to):
- Drowsiness
- Disorientation
- Unusual, uncontrollable muscle movements or contractions
- Seizures
- Lethargy.
If you happen to overdose on metoclopramide, seek medical attention immediately.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your metoclopramide as scheduled, it is usually best to simply skip the missed dose, since this medication should be taken at specific times (30 minutes before meals and at bedtime). Do not take a double dose.
Currently, this medication is available in generic form
(see Generic Reglan).
Who Makes Metoclopramide?
Brand-name metoclopramide tablets are manufactured by Alaven Pharmaceutical (the brand-name oral solution is no longer available). Generic metoclopramide tablets and oral solution are made by several different manufacturers.
Metoclopramide tablets are available in the following strengths:
- Metoclopramide 5 mg
- Metoclopramide 10 mg.
This medication is also available in injectable form. Generic metoclopramide is also available as an oral solution (liquid), with 5 mg of metoclopramide per 5 mL (per teaspoonful). Brand-name metoclopramide oral solution is no longer available.
Storage Methods for Metoclopramide
This medication should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. It should be stored in an airtight container. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
