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Metoclopramide

Metoclopramide is an antiemetic and dopamine antagonist. It is used for nausea, vomiting and gastroparesis, and it affects movement through the upper digestive tract. The tablet form is supplied as Maxolon 10 mg. It is intended for symptomatic relief.

Medicine containing Metoclopramide

Maxolon

Nausea, Vomiting, Gastroparesis

10mg

Maxolon is a metoclopramide tablet, with the price shown per tablet, in a single strength with pack sizes listed. It is for nausea, vomiting and gastroparesis.

FromUS$0.57/ tabletView

Key points

  • Metoclopramide acts on the brain’s vomiting centre and on gastric emptying.
  • Onset is usually 30–60 minutes, with effects lasting about 4–6 hours.
  • It is not recommended for long-term use because of neurological risks.

What it is used for

Metoclopramide relieves nausea and vomiting. It is also used in gastroparesis, in which the stomach takes longer than normal to empty. These uses aim to restore a more normal rhythm to the digestive system.

How it works

Metoclopramide blocks dopamine receptors in the vomiting centre of the brain, which helps prevent nausea. It also facilitates gastric emptying and increases intestinal motility. Its antiemetic effect comes from the brain action; its prokinetic effect comes from the change in gut movement. As a prokinetic, it makes stomach muscle contractions stronger and more frequent, so food moves through the stomach more quickly.

Tablets and brand

Metoclopramide is supplied as a tablet. The 10 mg tablet is Maxolon, which contains metoclopramide. Orders through MayChemist are shipped to Malaysia from pharmacy partners in India in discreet packaging.

Safety and interactions

Metoclopramide should not be used in people with gastrointestinal haemorrhage, phaeochromocytoma or epilepsy. A clinician should be told about any previous movement disorder or gastrointestinal blockage before treatment starts, because faster stomach movement could complicate these conditions. Long-term use is not recommended because of neurological risks. Do not use it during pregnancy without medical advice. When pregnancy use is advised, it should be restricted to the short term and guided by a clinician. Breastfeeding suitability should be confirmed with a qualified clinician or pharmacist before use. Use with caution in paediatric patients and elderly people.

Common side effects include somnolence, diarrhoea and asthenia. Extrapyramidal disorder, galactorrhoea and depression can occur. Tardive dyskinesia and neuroleptic malignant syndrome are serious and need immediate medical attention. Alcohol, levodopa and CNS depressants may interact with metoclopramide. These interactions should be checked before use.

Further reading

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