Metoclopramide-oral

This medication may cause a condition known as tardive dyskinesia. In some cases, this condition may be permanent. Tardive dyskinesia is more likely to occur when metoclopramide is used for longer than 3 months, in high doses, or when used in the elderly (especially elderly women). Contact your doctor immediately if you develop any unusual uncontrolled movements (especially of the face, mouth, tongue, arms or legs). There is no treatment for tardive dyskinesia, but in some cases symptoms may lessen or stop once metoclopramide is stopped.

Because of the risk for tardive dyskinesia, metoclopramide should not be used for longer than 3 months (12 weeks), except in rare cases where the benefits of this drug outweigh the risk of developing tardive dyskinesia. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

See also Warning section.Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking metoclopramide and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Take this medication by mouth 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime, usually 4 times daily or exactly as directed by your doctor. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.If you are using the disintegrating tablet, do not remove the tablet from the blister pack until right before your dose. Dry your hands before using this medication. Do not use the tablet if it is broken or crumbled. Immediately after removing the tablet, place it on the tongue. Allow it to dissolve completely, then swallow it with saliva. You do not need to take this product with water.Dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. If heartburn only occurs at certain times (such as after the evening meal), your doctor may direct you to take a single dose before those times instead of taking it throughout the day. This will reduce your risk of side effects.Because of the risk of tardive dyskinesia, do not take this more often, in larger doses, or for longer than directed by your doctor. According to the manufacturer, treatment should not exceed 12 weeks.To treat diabetic gastroparesis, this medication is usually taken for 2 to 8 weeks until your gut is working well. This condition may recur from time to time. Your doctor may direct you to start taking this medication as soon as your symptoms reappear and stop when you feel better. Ask your doctor for directions for starting and stopping this medication.Take this medication regularly as directed to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times before a meal each day.If this medication has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses, withdrawal symptoms (such as dizziness, nervousness, headaches) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Store at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Reviewed on 4/16/2014 References