Metoclopramide

Question 1

What is the classification of Metoclopramide?

Answer 1

Anti-emetic and anti-nauseant

Question 2

What is the action of Metoclopramide on the body?

Answer 2

Blocks central dopamine receptors to provide anti-emetic effect. It also increases muscle contractions in the upper GI tract, speeding up the rate at which the content of the stomach passes into the intestines

Question 3

What schedule is Metoclopramide classified under?

Answer 3

Schedule 4 (Restricted Drugs)

Question 4

What are the side effects of Metoclopramide?

Answer 4

• Restlessness
• Drowsiness / fatigue
• Dystonic reactions (e.g. facial muscle spasm, trismus, slurred speech)

Question 5

What are the indications for Metoclopramide?

Answer 5

Nausea and vomiting, which can also be associated with cardiac chest pain, severe gastroenteritis and previously diagnosed migraine headaches

Question 6

What are the contraindications for Metoclopramide?

Answer 6

• Known severe allergic reaction
• Suspected intestinal / bowel obstruction
• Suspected or known haematemesis / melaena (vomiting, bloody faeces)
• Paediatric patients < 15 years
• Pregnant patients

Question 7

What are the precautions for Metoclopramide?

Answer 7

• Elderly patients

- Previous history of dystonic reaction to Metoclopramide

Question 8

What is the onset time for Metoclopramide?

Answer 8

10 - 15 minutes (IM)

3 - 5 minutes (IV)

Question 9

What is the duration of Metoclopramide’s effect?

Answer 9

1 - 2 hours

Question 10

What is the dosage for adult patients (16 years and up)?

Answer 10

10mg, single dose only - delivered per oral, IM or IV

Question 11

What is the common trade name for Metoclopramide?

Answer 11

Maxolon