Metoclopramide can help treat certain symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastroparesis in patients with diabetes. Metoclopramide is available as a prescription and can come in several forms. This medicine can be provided as an oral tablet, syrup, or as an injection. Here we will be examining the oral route information of metoclopramide. Firstly, let’s examine metoclopramide more generally. For more information contact your doctor.
Disclaimer: Although this article has undergone research to try and present as accurate information as possible, please do not replace this following article with your doctor’s advice. Also, please note that I am not a doctor, and if you have any serious concerns or questions, it is important to reach out to a doctor you trust in order to receive professional care.
What is Metoclopramide?
As previously mentioned, metoclopramide can help treat certain conditions, including heartburn for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastroparesis in patients with diabetes. GERD is a condition that occurs from esophageal irritation caused by the backward flow of gastric acid. On the other hand, gastroparesis can affect digestion and occurs when the stomach muscles are affected, which prevents normal stomach function and emptying.
The different forms of metolopramide can treat certain conditions differently:
Oral Route
The metoclopramide oral option helps with both GERD and gastroparesis. The oral route usually consists of four to twelve weeks.
Injection
The metoclopramide injection can be used to help treat severe gastroparesis in diabetic patients as well as prevent nausea and vomiting in patients who have undergone chemotherapy or surgery. Additionally, metoclopramide injections can help during certain medical procedures that involve the stomach or intestines.
How does it work?
Metoclopramide helps by increasing the muscle contractions within the stomach or upper digestive tract. In other words, it helps speed up the process of the emptying process. This medicine can help relieve nausea, vomiting, heartburn, a loss of appetite, and reduce the likeliness of feeling full after eating small amounts of food.
Warnings
Some warnings for metoclopramide include:
- Muscles Movement Problems: If you have ever had any muscle movement problems after using medicines similar to metoclopramide, do not use this drug. If you have had any other problems associated with your stomach or intestine, such as a blockage, tear, or bleeding, let your doctor know and avoid using this medicine.
- Tardive Dyskinesia: Do not take metoclopramide if you have a movement disorder, such as tardive dyskinesia. Tardive dyskinesia is a condition in which patients experience involuntary movements.
- Allergic Reaction: Do not use this medicine if you have experienced any allergic reactions to it in the past. Make sure to keep your doctor informed if you believe you are experiencing any allergies while using this medication. If any severe effects occur that you believe to be life threatening, call 911 immediately.
- Children: Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. More specifically, it should not be given to anyone under the age of 18 years.
- Pregnancy: Tell your doctor if you are or plan on becoming pregnant. It is not suggested to use metoclopramide while pregnant.
- Other Conditions: Do not use metoclopramide if you have a history of the following conditions: seizures, seizure disorder (epilepsy), or pheochromocytoma (an adrenal gland tumor). Other things to let your doctor know is if you have liver or kidney disease, high blood pressure, depression, heart rhythm disorder, or Parkinson’s disease.
Side Effects
There is a long list of side effects of metoclopramide. If you believe you are experiencing any side effects, contact your doctor immediately. However, if the effects appear to worsen or become severe or life threatening, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room as soon as possible. Some side effects are more common than others. Here is a list of side effects from most common to less common:
More Common
- diarrhea
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- restlessness
- headache
- constipation
- agitation
- irritability
Less Common
- skin rash
- dry mouth
- depression
- increased need to urinate
- decrease interest in sexual intercourse
- breast tenderness or swelling
- change in menstruation
Other side effects can occur that are not listed above. If you experience other effects or reactions, talk with your doctor.
Other Important Information
Alcohol
If you consume alcohol while using metoclopramide, interactions can occur. Also, it is important to note that this medicine can impact how you react if you consume alcohol or other CNS depressants. Because interactions can occur, make sure to stay in contact with your doctor if you experience any effects.
Storage
Keep the medicine out of the reach of any pets and children. Additionally, it should be kept in a sealed container at room temperature away from heat and moisture. Lastly, do not use any outdated medicine.
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