|  | Conditions Treatments | Digestive Health

Metroclopramide Side Effects

Metoclopramide is a prescription medicine. It is often used to treat various intestine and stomach-related disorders, such as heartburn. It is also often used to treat people with diabetes who are suffering from gastroparesis (a condition involving difficulty in emptying out the stomach). It is classified as a dopamine receptor antagonist. Some side effects of Metoclopramide exist.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • There are a few side effects that users of Metoclopramide frequently experience, such as difficulty sleeping, lower energy levels, headache, drowsiness, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, exhaustion and restlessness. These side effects usually go away as the body gets used to the medication, but if you have them and find them to be persistent or bothersome, you should speak to your doctor.

    Serious Side Effects

    • Although they are unlikely, there are many possible serious side effects of Metoclopramide. These uncommon side effects require emergency medical assistance. They include darker colored urine, changes in the vision, jaundice, rigidity or stiffness of the muscles, lingering or extreme dizziness, coordination loss, shortness of breath, uncontrolled movements of the muscles, mood or mental changes (such as depression, agitation, anxiety, nervousness and jitteriness), loss of bladder control, sexual dysfunction, confusion, disorientation, extreme or lingering restlessness, increased sweating, abnormal weight gain, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, swelling of the extremities and suicidal feelings.

    Allergic Reactions

    • Severe allergic reactions are considered to be possibly dangerous Metoclopramide side effects. If you notice signs of allergic reaction, get immediate medical attention. Some signs of allergic reaction to the medicine include trouble breathing; chest heaviness; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and mouth; itchiness; hives and skin rash.

    Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

    • Although very unusual, Metoclopramide can sometimes cause the dangerous and often life-threatening side effect of a nervous system-related issue known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome. If you notice any symptoms of this condition, you need to consult your doctor about it immediately. Some signs to look out for include rapid heartbeat, mood or mental changes, changes in the amount of urine produced, rigid muscles, sweating much more and fever.

    Elderly Individuals

    • Elderly persons are much more susceptible to the various possible side effects of Metoclopramide (such as confusion, disorientation, drowsiness and uncontrolled movements). As a result, they are advised to be particularly careful when using this medicine.

Digestive Health - Related Articles