Metoclopramide
Uses
How it Works
Common Side effects
Patients who take Metoclopramide may suffer from such side effects;
Diarrhoea,
Drowsiness,
Insomnia,
Anxiety,
Tiredness,
Headaches,
Agitation,
Restlessness,
Parkinsons
Introduction
Reglan (Metoclopramide) is a pro-kinetic drug which stimulates the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, including the lower oesophageal sphincter, stomach, and small intestines and thereby facilitating gastric emptying.
Use
Reglan (Metoclopramide) is used to treat heartburn due to gastro-oesophageal reflux in patients who have tried other medications and have not had any relief from their symptoms. It is also used to facilitate gastric emptying in diabetic patients who suffer from gastric stasis and delayed gastric emptying. The symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and diabetic gastric stasis include nausea, heartburn, anorexia, abdominal fullness, etc.
Dosage and administration
This medicine is available as tablets of 10 mg and 15 mg concentrations. The route of administration is oral. The usual recommended dose is the 10 to 15 mg tablets that are to be taken 30 minutes before every meal and at bedtime (3 to 4 times in a day). Take the drug only as prescribed by your doctor. Do not break or crush the tablets. Immediately after removing the tablet from its strip, place it under your tongue, allow it to dissolve and then swallow. It is not required to take it with water. Do not take the drug for more than 12 weeks due to the risk of Tardive Dyskinesia (a potentially irreversible disorder characterized by involuntary movements of the hands, legs, face, etc.). To treat diabetic stasis, this medication is usually prescribed for 2 to 8 weeks until your gastrointestinal tract works better. Your doctor would advise you on the proper use of this medication.
Warning
Tell your doctor if you have any history of liver disorders, hypertension, heart attack, kidney problems, breast cancer, mood changes like depression or suicidal tendencies, gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers or bleeding issues in the stomach and intestines, etc.
This drug may affect your mental alertness by causing drowsiness, hence, you are advised not to drive or use any heavy machinery after taking this medicine. You are also advised not to consume alcohol.
This medicine is known to contain sugar/aspartame, hence if you are diagnosed with diabetes, then you must consult your doctor about the safety of this drug.
Children and older patients are more sensitive to the side effects of this drug.
Pregnant women and breast feeding mothers are to use this medication only if it has been prescribed by the doctor.
In case of any severe allergic reactions such as breathing problems, excessive sweating, confusion, problems in balancing and coordination, or swelling of the lips, eyes, mouth, etc., seek immediate medical care and stop taking this medicine.
Side effects
Dizziness
Tiredness
Insomnia
Headaches
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Itching