Side Effects of Perinorm

Perinorm, generically sold as metoclopramide, is a drug used to treat heartburn and other conditions associated with gastroesophageal relfux. As is common with many medications, Perinorm may cause a variety of mild to severe side effects based on the individual.

Identification

• Perinorm is a drug that increases the number of contractions in the digestive tract, so the contents of the stomach can empty quickly into the intestines. By doing so, Perinorm treats short-term heartburn. According to Drugs.com, it also is "...used to treat slow gastric emptying in people with diabetes (also called diabetic gastroparesis), which can cause nausea, vomiting, heartburn, loss of appetite and a feeling of fullness after meals." Contact your doctor to discuss your particular use of the drug.

Common Side Effects

• Users of Perinorm may experience the following common side effects: nausea, mild insomnia, headache, dizziness, diarrhea, general weakness, drowsiness and restlessness. Though common side effects, do not hesitate to contact your doctor if any of the preceding symptoms persist or regularly occur.

Severe Side Effects

• In rare cases, the following side effects as reported by Drugs.com may arise: "abnormal thinking; confusion; dark urine; decreased coordination; decreased sexual ability; fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; fever; hallucinations; loss of bladder control; mental or mood changes (e.g., depression, anxiety, agitation, jitteriness); seizures; severe or persistent dizziness, headache or trouble sleeping; severe or persistent restlessness, including inability to sit still; shortness of breath; stiff or rigid muscles; sudden increased sweating; sudden unusual weight gain; suicidal thoughts or actions; swelling of the arms, legs or feet; uncontrolled muscle movements (e.g., of the arms, legs, tongue, jaw, cheeks; twitching and tremors); vision changes; yellowing of the skin or eyes." Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the above severe side effects.

Use

• Perinorm is generally taken orally with a full glass (8 oz.) of water 30 minutes before meals. Although Perinorm may clear symptoms quickly, always continue taking the medication until instructed to stop by your doctor. Always adhere to the dosage recommendations of your doctor and never extend the prescribed duration of use. Always store at room temperature away from heat and moisture.

Possible Drug Interactions

• Perinorm may interact with a number of common drugs including acetaminophen, cyclosporine, digoxin, levodopa, mepenzolate and tetracycline. This is by no means a complete list of the possible drug interactions that may occur. Be sure to consult a full list of drug interactions before use and discuss your current use of medications with your doctor.

Warning

• Since the medication can cause dizziness and drowsiness, always use extreme caution when trying to drive or operate heavy machinery. Discuss the dangers of using Perinorm if pregnant or breast-feeding with your doctor. Drugs .com reports that use of Perinorm can lead to a fatal condition known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Do not use in children under 15 years of age.