Gastrointestinal (Anti-Emetic Drugs - Metoclopramide)

Question 1

Examples of drugs (Anti-Emetic Drugs - Metoclopramide)

Answer 1

• Metoclopramide

Question 2

Mechanism of action (Anti-Emetic Drugs - Metoclopramide)

Answer 2

• Dopamine (D2) receptor antagonist
• Raises activity in the chemoreceptor trigger zone – reducing input from afferent visceral nerves
• Also increases gastric emptying and intestinal transit
• Reduced oesophageal reflux

Question 3

Indications (Anti-Emetic Drugs - Metoclopramide)

Answer 3

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• To increase gastric emptying

Question 4

Side-effects (Anti-Emetic Drugs - Metoclopramide)

Answer 4

• Dystonia (due to dopamine antagonism)
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Diarrhoea
• Parkinsonism with long term use

Question 5

Important pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (Anti-Emetic Drugs - Metoclopramide)

Answer 5

• Can be given orally or parenterally

- Dystonic reactions and movement disorders are more common at the extremes of age so caution is needed in these groups

Question 6

Patient information (Anti-Emetic Drugs - Metoclopramide)

Answer 6

• Avoid alcohol

- Take 30 mins before meal