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Understanding Metoclopramide: A Comprehensive Patient Guide | Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment Options Explained

Metoclopramide: A Comprehensive Medication Profile

Summary or Key Points

Metoclopramide is a medication used primarily for treating gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastroparesis and GERD, and nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy or surgery. It works by speeding up the movement of food through the stomach and intestines and by blocking certain chemicals in the brain that trigger nausea and vomiting. This medication should always be taken as directed by your healthcare provider, and any concerns should be discussed with them. You can easily consult with our healthcare providers through our telemedicine services.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Reglan (Metoclopramide)

A ‘generic name’ is the standard name of a medication, which is not trademarked by any company. It’s the name used by healthcare providers and pharmacists, and is typically in parenthesis, as seen above with Metoclopramide (Reglan).

Pharmacologic Category

Metoclopramide falls under the category of medications called prokinetic agents. Other medications in this category include Domperidone and Cisapride.

Dosing

Metoclopramide is indicated to treat the following conditions in adults:

  • Gastroparesis: 10 mg, 4 times daily, 30 minutes before each meal and at bedtime, for 2 to 8 weeks.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): 10 to 15 mg, up to 4 times daily, 30 minutes before each meal and at bedtime, for up to 12 weeks.
  • Nausea and Vomiting related to chemotherapy or surgery: Doses can vary widely depending on the individual situation and should be determined by your healthcare provider.

Remember, never adjust your medication dose without consulting your healthcare provider. You can consult with one of our providers right away through our telemedicine service.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Metoclopramide is available in the following forms and strengths:

  • Tablet: 5 mg, 10 mg
  • Solution: 5 mg/5 mL
  • Injection: 5 mg/mL

Administration Instructions

Metoclopramide should be taken orally as directed by your healthcare provider, usually 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime. Do not increase your dose or take it more frequently than instructed. If you’re using the liquid form of this medication, measure the dose carefully using the provided measuring device. For the injectable form, a healthcare professional will administer the injection.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

While many people using Metoclopramide do not experience serious side effects, you should be aware of potential reactions. These include:

  • Common side effects: restlessness, drowsiness, fatigue, and nausea.
  • Less common but serious side effects: muscle spasms or contractions, changes in mood, and a decreased interest in sex.
  • Rare but very serious side effects: uncontrolled movements (especially of the face or tongue), and neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a potentially fatal condition characterized by fever, muscle stiffness, and confusion).

If you notice any of these symptoms, immediately seek medical help. Remember, our telemedicine services are available to provide you immediate care. Always consult your healthcare provider for any concerns about side effects.

Contraindications

In medical terms, a contraindication refers to a specific situation or condition that makes a particular treatment or procedure potentially harmful. Metoclopramide is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to metoclopramide. This is because it can cause severe allergic reactions.
  • Patients with pheochromocytoma, a rare tumor of adrenal gland tissue. Metoclopramide can cause a significant increase in blood pressure in these individuals.
  • Patients with epilepsy. Metoclopramide can increase the frequency and severity of seizures.
  • Patients with gastrointestinal obstruction, perforation, or hemorrhage. Metoclopramide works by accelerating gastrointestinal motility, which can be dangerous in these situations.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Metoclopramide can interact with several medications, including:

  • Dopamine agonists like Mirapex (Pramipexole) and Requip (Ropinirole). Metoclopramide may reduce the effectiveness of these medications.
  • MAO inhibitors such as Nardil (Phenelzine) and Marplan (Isocarboxazid). Using these medications with metoclopramide may increase the risk of side effects.

Metoclopramide in Pregnancy

Metoclopramide is categorized as a Pregnancy Category B drug by the FDA, meaning that it is not expected to harm an unborn baby when used as directed. However, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant before taking this medication. You can consult with one of our providers right away through our telemedicine service.

Metoclopramide while Breastfeeding

Metoclopramide can pass into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. It’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before taking this medication while breastfeeding. Our telemedicine service is readily available for such consultations.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost for a 30-day supply of Metoclopramide (10 mg, 4 times daily) is approximately $30 using a GoodRx coupon. Costs may vary depending on the pharmacy and location.

Possible Alternatives

For each condition treated by metoclopramide, there are alternative treatments or lifestyle modifications that may be beneficial. Remember to discuss these with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can consult with one of our providers right away through our telemedicine service:

  • Gastroparesis: Dietary changes, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals or liquids and low-residue diets, can help manage symptoms. Alternative medications include Domperidone and Erythromycin.
  • GERD: Lifestyle changes such as losing weight, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and altering diet can help manage GERD. Alternative medications include H2 blockers like Zantac (Ranitidine) and proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec (Omeprazole).
  • Nausea and Vomiting related to chemotherapy or surgery: Other medications like Zofran (Ondansetron) and Ativan (Lorazepam) may be considered.

Recent Updates on Metoclopramide Research

As of 2023, studies are exploring the use of metoclopramide in other conditions such as migraines and as a potential treatment for hiccups. In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, metoclopramide demonstrated potential as a treatment for chronic hiccups. Meanwhile, the Migraine Trust highlights ongoing research into the use of metoclopramide for the relief of acute migraines. It’s an exciting time in the research of metoclopramide, and patients are encouraged to discuss these potential uses with their healthcare provider. Consultations can be readily made through our telemedicine service.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.

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