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How should I take metoclopramide?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

The oral concentrate form of metoclopramide must be mixed with another liquid, such as water, fruit juice, soda, or a soft food like applesauce or pudding. Carefully follow mixing directions to make sure you get the correct dose.

Metoclopramide is usually taken before meals and at bedtime. Your doctor may want you to take the medication as needed only with meals that usually cause heartburn. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Store metoclopramide at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include drowsiness, confusion, tremors or uncontrolled muscle movements in face or neck, or seizure (convulsions).

What should I avoid while taking metoclopramide?

Narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, and medicine for anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by metoclopramide. Tell your doctor if you regularly use any of these other medicines. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of metoclopramide. Metoclopramide can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

What are the possible side effects of metoclopramide?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using metoclopramide and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• tremors, or restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck;

• mask-like appearance of the face;

• fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats, rapid breathing;

• depressed mood, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;

• hallucinations, anxiety, agitation, jittery feeling, trouble staying still;

• swelling, fluid retention;

• jaundice (yellowing of your skin or eyes); or

• seizure (convulsions).

Less serious side effects may include:

• feeling restless, drowsy, tired, or dizzy;

• headache, sleep problems (insomnia);

• nausea, diarrhea;

• breast tenderness or swelling;

• changes in your menstrual periods; or

• urinating more than usual.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

After you stop taking metoclopramide, you may have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as headache, dizziness, or nervousness. Talk to your doctor about how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication.

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