Metoclopramide is used to prevent and treat nausea or vomiting.  Learn how to use the medication, its common side effects, special precautions to watch out for, and more.

What is this medication for?

Metoclopramide is used to prevent and treat nausea or vomiting. It is sometimes also used to treat conditions like bloatedness and indigestion. Metoclopramide works by blocking a chemical in the brain that causes nausea and vomiting. It also increases the movement of the stomach and intestines.

For use of metoclopramide for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, please click here: Nausea and Vomiting Medications in Pregnancy (healthhub.sg)

How should I take or use this medication?

• Take this medication 30 minutes before food 
• Take each dose at least 6 hours apart
• Do not exceed 30mg in any 24-hour period unless recommended by a healthcare professional. 

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

• Metoclopramide is generally taken on an as-needed basis, which means you do not have to take it when you do not have nausea or vomiting. You should take it regularly only when directed by your doctor. 
• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
• You have a history of 
  • Gastrointestinal obstruction or bleed 
  • Kidney disease 
  • Liver disease 
  • Parkinson’s disease (a condition that affects your body movement)
  • Uncontrolled blood pressure 
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications, and herbal remedies. 

What are some common side effects of this medication?

• Drowsiness 
  • Avoid driving or engaging in activities that require concentration
• Dizziness
  • Avoid driving or engaging in activities that require concentration
• Increased levels of prolactin hormone in the body, which can lead to changes in menstrual cycle in females or abnormal breast swelling in both men and women. 
  • These effects usually go away after you stop taking the medication. 
  • Speak to your healthcare professional for further management if you feel bothered by the symptoms. 

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

Very rarely, Metoclopramide can lead to tardive dyskinesia, where there are uncontrollable movements (such as in the face, tongue, jaw or other parts of the body). Do not use Metoclopramide for a long period of time without consulting your healthcare professional as it increases your risk of developing tardive dyskinesia.

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately. 

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

Inform your doctor if you are on the following medications: 

• Risperidone, Quetiapine, Haloperidol or Aripiprazole (medications used to treat a mental health condition such as schizophrenia)
• Trimetazidine (a medication used for prevention of chest pain)
• Rivastigmine (a medication used for treatment of dementia)

Using these medications together with Metoclopramide can increase your risk of developing tardive dyskinesia.

Inform your doctor if you are on medications for Parkinson’s disease as metoclopramide may make these medications less effective.     

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children. 

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin. 

Disclaimer

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on Oct 2024