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metoclopramide - injection, Reglan (cont.)

USES: Metoclopramide injection is used to prevent nausea and vomiting from surgery or cancer chemotherapy.Metoclopramide is used to treat certain conditions of the stomach and intestines. Metoclopramide is used in diabetic patients who have poor emptying of their stomachs (gastroparesis). Treating gastroparesis can decrease symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and stomach/abdominal fullness. Metoclopramide is used as a short-term treatment (4 to 12 weeks). The injectable form of this medication should only be used when you cannot take the medication by mouth. Your doctor will switch you to the form taken by mouth as soon as you are able to take it.Metoclopramide works by blocking a natural substance (dopamine). It speeds up stomach emptying and movement of the upper intestines.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using metoclopramide and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.This medication is given by injection into a muscle or vein by a health care professional. It is usually given as a single injection before your treatment/during surgery, or every 2 to 6 hours, or as directed by your doctor. If injecting into a vein, this medication must be given over at least 1 to 2 minutes to lower the risk of side effects such as anxiety, jitteriness, or drowsiness. It may also be mixed in a solution and given into a vein over 15 minutes or longer for higher doses.Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.Dosage and length of treatment is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.If this medication has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses, withdrawal symptoms (such as dizziness, nervousness, headaches) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.Immediately tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens while receiving this medication.

SIDE EFFECTS: See also Warning section.Drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness, trouble sleeping, agitation, headache, temporary skin redness on the face or upper chest (flushing), and diarrhea may occur. Giving the medication at a slower rate may decrease the risk of these side effects. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes (such as anxiety, confusion, depression, thoughts of suicide), decreased sexual ability, inability to keep still/need to pace, muscle spasms/uncontrolled muscle movements (such as twisting neck, arching back), abnormal breast-milk production, enlarged/tender breasts, swelling of the hands/feet, changes in menstruation in women.This medication may cause side effects that look like Parkinson's disease. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely side effects occur: shaking (tremors), slowed/difficult movement, muscle stiffness, mask-like facial expression.This drug may infrequently cause a serious (sometimes fatal) nervous system problem (neuroleptic malignant syndrome). Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects: fever, rigid muscles, increased sweating, fast heartbeat, confusion.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.



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