Metoclopramide
Brand names: Maxolon
Metoclopramide is a dopamine (D2) antagonist antiemetic and prokinetic used for nausea, vomiting and gastric stasis.
ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.
US labelling (FDA)
Reference — US labelling, may differ from UKDOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Therapy with metoclopramide oral solution should not exceed 12 weeks in duration. For the Relief of Symptomatic Gastroesophageal Reflux Administer from 10 mg to 15 mg metoclopramide orally up to 4 times daily 30 minutes before each meal and at bedtime, depending upon symptoms being treated and clinical response (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY and INDICATIONS AND USAGE ). If symptoms occur only intermittently or at specific times of the day, use of metoclopramide in single doses up to 20 mg prior to the provoking situation may be preferred rather than continuous treatment. Occasionally, patients (such as elderly patients) who are more sensitive to the therapeutic or …
Source: US FDA prescribing information (openFDA / DailyMed), label dated 2025-04-11. Accessed 2026-06-12. US dosing and indications can differ from UK practice — use UK sources for prescribing decisions.
Clinical monograph
How it works
It blocks central and gut dopamine D2 receptors (with some 5-HT effects), reducing nausea and speeding gastric emptying.
Prescribing in practice
- Extrapyramidal effects (acute dystonia, particularly in young women and children) and, with prolonged use, tardive dyskinesia limit it — use the lowest dose for the shortest time (generally up to 5 days).
- Avoid in gastrointestinal obstruction or perforation and soon after gut surgery.
- Use caution in Parkinson's disease, where it worsens symptoms.
Monitoring
Review for movement disorders and limit the duration of use.
Counselling the patient
- Use it only for the short course prescribed.
- Report involuntary movements or muscle spasms (especially of the face or neck), or restlessness.
Evidence & guidelines
Restricted to short-term use (commonly up to 5 days) because of neurological risks (MHRA/EMA review).
Reference: MHRA Drug Safety Update 2013 (Metoclopramide); Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.