Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Metoclopramide.
Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Metoclopramide may cause drowsiness and increase the drowsiness caused by alcohol and other drugs. Avoid driving and doing other potentially hazardous activities until you have determined the effect Metoclopramide has on you.
Medical conditions: If you have Epilepsy, Parkinson's Disease, or Kidney Disease, discuss with your doctor how Metoclopramide may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Metoclopramide, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Tardive dyskinesia (TD): Metoclopramide may cause tardive dyskinesia (TD) to develop. TD is a potentially irreversible syndrome of involuntary, repetitive movements of the face and tongue muscles. Although TD appears most commonly in seniors, especially women, it is impossible to predict who will develop TD. The risk of developing TD increases with higher doses and long-term treatment. If you experience muscle twitching or abnormal movements of the face or tongue, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Pregnancy: Metoclopramide should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Metoclopramide, contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Metoclopramide passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking metoclopramide, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: Metoclopramide should not be used in children less than one year of age. It should only be used in children over one year of age when the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks of side effects. Children may be more at risk of experiencing abnormal involuntary movements such as tremors and abnormal twitching movements, even at recommended dosages.
Seniors: Seniors appear to have a higher risk of side effects with long-term treatment of metoclopramide.