metoclopramide, Reglan, Reglan ODT, Metozol ODT, Octamide, (Maxolon discontinued) (cont.)

Pharmacy Author:

Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.

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Medical and Pharmacy Editor:

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

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PREGNANCY: The safety of metoclopramide in pregnancy has not been established.

NURSING MOTHERS: Metoclopramide is excreted in human breast milk. Nursing mothers should avoid metoclopramide during pregnancy.

SIDE EFFECTS: Metoclopramide is generally well-tolerated when used in low doses for brief periods. Neurological side effects increase with higher doses and longer periods of treatment. Common side effects of metoclopramide include drowsiness, restlessness, fatigue, anxiety, insomnia, depression, and sedation. The most serious neurological side effects of metoclopramide are symptoms mimicking Parkinson's disease, involuntary muscle movements, facial grimacing, and dystonic reactions resembling tetanus. Fortunately, these more serious side effects are infrequent and usually - though not always - disappear when metoclopramide is discontinued. Patients with Parkinson's disease can experience worsening of symptoms with metoclopramide. Metoclopramide may impair the mental and/or physical abilities to drive or operate machinery.

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information

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