Metoclopramide works by increasing and accelerating gastric emptying, increasing the peristalsis of the duodenum and intestines, and inhibiting bile regurgitation. It also acts centrally by penetrating the blood-brain barrier, inhibiting the centers responsible for inducing vomiting (blocking the dopamine D2 receptor in the medulla and 5HT3 and 5HT4 serotonergic receptors).

Metoclopramide: application

Metaclopramide is used as an antiemetic in people:

  • using chemotherapy / radiotherapy,
  • during acute migraine attacks,
  • after surgery,
  • in gastric and duodenal ulcers.

When used by people suffering from migraine attacks, it can not only be used to reduce nausea, but can also be associated with painkillers to increase their absorption.

Metoclopramide: dosage

The recommended single dose for adult patients is 10 mg. This dose can be repeated up to 3 times a day, remembering to keep an interval of at least 6 hours between doses, even in the event of vomiting and rejection of the oral dose. A maximum of metoclopramide can be taken for 5 days.

Metoclopramide can be used in children between 15-18 years of age as a second-line treatment for vomiting caused by chemotherapy or radiotherapy. To select the appropriate dose, the patient's body weight should be taken into account. The maximum daily dose is 0.5 mg / kg body weight.

Doses should also be reduced in cases of renal or hepatic insufficiency.

Metoclopramide: contraindications and interactions

Contraindications to the use of metoclopramide may be Parkinson's disease and epilepsy, as it increases the frequency and intensity of seizures. You should also remember about possible interactions with other active substances, such as:

  • levodopa - antagonistic (opposing) actions,
  • alcohol - increasing the hypnotic effect of metoclopramide,
  • the prokinetic action of metoclopramide may change the absorption of various active substances (morphine derivatives, neuroleptics, serotonergic drugs, digoxin, cyclosporine),

You shouldexercise particular caution when driving vehicles or operating machinery, as metoclopramide may cause drowsiness and dizziness, which impair psychophysical fitness.

Metoclopramide: side effects

The most common side effects of metoclopramide include:

  • choreographed movements,
  • dyskinesia,
  • nystagmus attacks and visual disturbances,
  • dizziness,
  • sleepiness,
  • increase in blood prolactin concentration,
  • drop in blood pressure after intravenous injection.

Metoclopramide and pregnancy

Metoclopramide can be used in pregnant people, however, caution should be exercised and its administration should be avoided at the end of pregnancy due to the risk of extrapyramidal symptoms in the fetus. For the same reason, simultaneous use of metoclopramide and breastfeeding is not recommended.

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