About metoclopramide hydrochloride
Dopamine-blocking anti-nausea medicine
Used for
- Short-term treatment of nausea and vomiting
- Prevention of nausea and vomiting after surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy
Usual adult dose
Usually 10 mg up to three times daily; maximum 30 mg daily or 0.5 mg/kg daily. Treatment is generally limited to five days.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 1–18, only for specific approved uses: 0.1–0.15 mg/kg per dose, up to three times daily; maximum 0.5 mg/kg daily. Not for children under 1.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness, restlessness, or dizziness
- Diarrhoea
- Involuntary movements or muscle spasms
- Raised prolactin levels
Important warnings
- Risk of serious movement disorders increases with longer use; avoid treatment beyond five days.
- Avoid in Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, gastrointestinal bleeding, blockage, or perforation.
- Can cause drowsiness; avoid driving if affected and limit alcohol.
- Rectal dosing and approved uses vary by country; follow the local product leaflet.
Pregnancy
May be used when clinically necessary; use near delivery may affect the newborn. A clinician should weigh benefits and risks.
Breastfeeding
Passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding is generally not recommended during treatment; seek advice about alternatives.
Interactions
- Antipsychotics and other medicines causing movement disorders increase neurological side effects.
- Levodopa and dopamine agonists may have reduced effects.
- Sedatives, opioids, and alcohol can increase drowsiness.
- Some antidepressants, including fluoxetine, may increase metoclopramide exposure.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.