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UW Health SMPH

Metoclopramide

Examples Back to top

Generic Name Brand Name
metoclopramide Reglan

Metoclopramide may be given as a shot in the vein (intravenous, or IV) or in pill form.

How It Works Back to top

Metoclopramide increases the movements or contractions of the muscles in the stomach and intestines. This decreases the amount of time it takes for the stomach contents to move through the digestive tract.

Why It Is Used Back to top

Metoclopramide prevents and relieves nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. It is also used to treat heartburn, loss of appetite, and a prolonged feeling of fullness after meals.

How Well It Works Back to top

Metoclopramide improves nausea and vomiting that is caused by chemotherapy or advanced cancer. 1

Side Effects Back to top

Metoclopramide does not cause as many side effects as many other medicines used to prevent nausea and vomiting. Side effects may include:

  • Sleepiness or confusion.
  • Twitching or muscle spasms.
  • Decreased blood pressure (hypotension).
  • Rapid or uncontrolled movements of lips and tongue.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About Back to top

Do not use metoclopramide if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, prostate disease, severe low blood pressure, or rapid, irregular heartbeats.

Metoclopramide can cause sleepiness and confusion, so do not operate motor vehicles or other machinery until you know how you react to this medicine.

Do not drink alcohol while you are taking metoclopramide.

Metoclopramide can interact with many other medicines. Check with your doctor before taking other medicines, such as antihistamines or cold medicines, sedatives, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, pain medicines, seizure medicines, or muscle relaxants.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

References Back to top

Citations

  1. National Cancer Institute (2011). Nausea and Vomiting PDQ—Health Professional Version . Available online: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/supportivecare/nausea/HealthProfessional.

Credits Back to top

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Douglas A. Stewart, MD - Medical Oncology
Last Revised August 11, 2011

Last Revised: August 11, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & Douglas A. Stewart, MD - Medical Oncology

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