Metoclopramide
NHS information about the medicine metoclopramide, including what it's used for, who can use it, how to use it and side effects.
What metoclopramide is for
Metoclopramide is an anti-sickness medicine that is used to treat, or prevent, you feeling sick (nausea) and being sick (vomiting).
You may be offered it to prevent any sickness from happening after you’ve had chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Metoclopramide is also prescribed to treat the sickness that can happen during a migraine.
How to take metoclopramide
Metoclopramide usually comes as tablets or a liquid that you swallow.
Metoclopramide can be taken up to 3 times a day. You need to leave at least 6 hours between each dose, even if you are sick (vomit) after taking it.
You will usually be prescribed the medicine for a short time as it can cause side effects if taken for longer than 5 days.
Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or have any problems taking it.
Side effects of metoclopramide
Like all medicines, metoclopramide can cause side effects, but not everyone gets them.
Common side effects
Common side effects of metoclopramide can include:
- feeling sleepy (drowsy)
- low mood or depression
- diarrhoea
- feeling unusually weak and lacking in energy
If you feel drowsy do not drive, ride a bike or use machinery until you no longer have this symptom.
More about side effects
These are not all the side effects of metoclopramide.
For a full list, see the leaflet that came with your medicine or search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website.
You can report any side effects you get on the Yellow Card website.
Who can and cannot take metoclopramide
Metoclopramide is suitable for most adults and children aged 1 year or over.
Metoclopramide is not suitable for some people. For example, it may not be suitable if:
- you've had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from metoclopramide
- you have epilepsy
- you have Parkinson's disease
- you have a blockage, hole, tear, or bleeding inside your stomach, intestines or bowel, or you've recently had surgery to this part of your body (gastrointestinal surgery)
Before taking metoclopramide, tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions.
Breastfeeding and metoclopramide
Tell your doctor if you're breastfeeding.
Metoclopramide is not usually used while breastfeeding.
Pregnancy and metoclopramide
Tell your doctor if you're pregnant or you get pregnant while taking metoclopramide.
Metoclopramide can be used during pregnancy if needed. Your doctor will talk to you about the risks and benefits of taking it while you're pregnant.
Taking metoclopramide with other medicines, food and drink
There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with metoclopramide.
This includes some types of:
- SSRI antidepressants
- medicines used for Parkinson's disease
- medicines that can make you feel sleepy (drowsy), such as medicines for anxiety, or strong painkillers
- medicines for psychosis
This is not the full list of medicines that may not mix well with metoclopramide.
Before taking metoclopramide, tell your doctor if you’re taking any other medicines, herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.
Food, drink and alcohol with metoclopramide
You can eat and drink as normal when taking metoclopramide. But it's best not to drink alcohol because this increases the risk of side effects.
Find out more about your medicine
To find out more about your medicine, you can:
- check the leaflet that comes with it
- search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website
- speak to a pharmacist or doctor for advice
