Metoclopramide is used for the short-term treatment of heartburn caused by gastroesophageal reflux. It is commonly used in cases where other available drugs have not been effective. Metoclopramide is also used to treat diabetic gastroparesis.
What is Metoclopramide?
Metoclopramide increases muscle contractions in the first section of the digestive system. This drug helps accelerate gastric emptying.
How should Metoclopramide be taken?
Metoclopramide can be administered orally, parenterally or intravenously. The methods of treatment vary from case to case; however, the duration of therapy should never exceed twelve weeks.
Side effects associated with Metoclopramide
High doses or prolonged use of Metoclopramide can cause potentially irreversible movement disorders. These disorders are manifested by uncontrollable movements of the lips, tongue, eyes, face, arms and legs.
Among the other possible side effects of metoclopramide include the following:
- Agitation
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Breast swelling or tenderness to the touch
- Changes in menstrual cycle
- Increased urination
It is important to stop taking this drug and contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Tremors of the arms or legs
- Involuntary movements of the face
- Any uncontrollable muscle movement
- Slow movement, coordination problems or difficulty walking
- Face that looks like a mask
- Muscle rigidity
- High fever
- Sweating
- Confusion
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Feeling faint
- Depression, suicidal thoughts or self-harming
- Hallucinations, anxiety, agitation or trouble staying still
- Swelling
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid weight gain
- Jaundice
- Convulsions
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Metoclopramide
Treatment with metoclopramide should never surpass twelve months or exceed the prescribed dosages. It is also necessary to avoid consuming alcohol.
Before starting treatment with metoclopramide, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drugs or food
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from kidney or liver disease, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, depression or other psychiatric illnesses, gastrointestinal bleeding or blocks, gastrointestinal ulcers, epilepsy or seizures, pheochromocytoma, cancer breast or phenylketonuria
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
Metoclopramide should not be given to children.
