Metoclopramide Injection

Metoclopramide injection is a prescription-only antiemetic and prokinetic used to manage nausea, vomiting, and delayed gastric emptying. It is given by intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) injection.

Uses:

• Treatment and prevention of nausea and vomiting, including those caused by:

  • Chemotherapy

  • Surgery

  • Migraine attacks

• Management of gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying)

• To aid gastrointestinal procedures by speeding up stomach emptying

• Sometimes used to promote lactation (off-label)

How It Works:

• Blocks dopamine (D2) receptors in the brain’s vomiting center

• Enhances motility of the upper GI tract, speeding up food movement from the stomach

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness or fatigue

• Restlessness or agitation

• Diarrhea

• Involuntary muscle movements (tardive dyskinesia) – especially with prolonged use

• Injection site reactions

Precautions & Warnings:

• Risk of extrapyramidal symptoms, especially in children and the elderly

• Avoid long-term use (more than 12 weeks) unless necessary

• Not recommended in patients with Parkinson’s disease or seizure disorders

• Use caution in patients with depression

Dosage:

• Typical dose: 10 mg every 6–8 hours (IV or IM)

• Adjusted according to patient’s age, condition, and response

Category:

• Antiemetic / Prokinetic agent

Prescription Status:

• Prescription Only Medicine (POM)