Metoclopramide works by blocking dopamine and hence accelerates stomach emptying and movement of the upper intestines. It is therefore used to treat conditions affecting the stomach and intestines such as nausea and vomiting, including those induced by chemotherapy or radiotherapy, as a prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting, acute migraine, and diabetic gastroparesis.
For most uses, the adult dosage is 10 mg up to 3 times daily if taken orally.
For acute migraine, the adult dosage is 10 mg for 1 dose as soon as migraine symptoms develop when taken orally, by intramuscular injection, or by slow intravenous injection.
Common side effects of Metoclopramide include diarrhoea and drowsiness. High doses of Metoclopramide can cause rare side effects like movement problems.
Common dosing schedule:
You should take Metoclopramide 30 minutes before a meal and at bedtime.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Metoclopramide may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Metoclopramide is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Metoclopramide in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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