Metoclopramide Tablet, 10 Mg

Metoclopramide is a prokinetic and antiemetic medication used to treat various gastrointestinal conditions related to nausea, vomiting, and delayed gastric emptying. Each tablet contains 10 mg of metoclopramide hydrochloride, the active ingredient.

 

Mechanism of Action:

Metoclopramide works by:

• Blocking dopamine (D2) receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) in the brain, thereby preventing nausea and vomiting.

• Enhancing the motility of the upper gastrointestinal tract without affecting gastric, biliary, or pancreatic secretions.

• Accelerating gastric emptying and increasing the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter, helping to reduce gastroesophageal reflux.

 

Dosage and Administration:

• Adults:

  • Usual dose is 10 mg taken up to 3 times daily, 30 minutes before meals.

  • Maximum dose: 30 mg/day

  • Duration of treatment should not exceed 5 days without medical supervision.

• Elderly & Renal Impairment:

  • Dose adjustment is recommended.

• Children (1–18 years):

  • Use only if clearly needed and with careful dose calculation based on weight (due to risk of side effects like extrapyramidal symptoms).

 

Contraindications:

Do not use Metoclopramide 10 mg in patients who:

• Have gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation, or obstruction

• Have a history of epilepsy or seizure disorders

• Are using levodopa or dopaminergic agonists

• Have a history of tardive dyskinesia with neuroleptics or metoclopramide

• Are children under 1 year of age

 

Warnings and Precautions:

• Limit use to the shortest duration possible due to risk of neurological side effects.

• Use with caution in elderly, renal/hepatic impairment, and Parkinson’s disease patients.

• May cause drowsiness, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

• Should not be taken with alcohol or other sedatives.

 

Drug Interactions:

• Levodopa and other dopamine agonists (reduced efficacy)

• CNS depressants (increased sedation)

• Anticholinergics (may counteract prokinetic effects)

• SSRIs and antipsychotics (increased risk of serotonin syndrome or extrapyramidal symptoms)

 

Possible Side Effects:

Common:

• Drowsiness or fatigue

• Diarrhea

• Restlessness

Less Common:

• Extrapyramidal symptoms (involuntary movements, muscle spasms)

• Depression or mood changes

Serious (Rare):

• Tardive dyskinesia (irreversible involuntary movements, especially with long-term use)

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a rare but life-threatening reaction)

• Seizures

Report any involuntary facial or limb movements immediately, especially in long-term use.

Storage:

• Store at room temperature (15°C to 25°C)

• Keep in a dry place, away from light and moisture

• Keep out of reach of children