Indications 

Reglan is a medication used to treat various conditions of the stomach and intestines. Prescribed as a short-term treatment for ongoing heartburn that is not well controlled by usual medications, for a duration of 4 to 12 weeks.  

This medication is most effective for heartburn that occurs after a meal or during the day, as treating ongoing heartburn can decrease damage done by stomach acid to the esophagus and aid in healing.  

Metoclopramide is utilized in diabetic patients with gastroparesis, a condition in which the stomach does not empty properly, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fullness in the stomach/abdomen.  

The drug works by blocking dopamine, a natural substance in the body, to speed up stomach emptying and movement of the upper intestines. 

Metoclopramide is not recommended for use in children due to an increased risk of serious side effects such as muscle spasms or uncontrolled muscle movements. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details. 

Uses and Dosage 

Prior to taking metoclopramide, carefully read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. 

Take this medication orally as instructed by your doctor, typically up to four times daily, 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime. Dosage will be determined based on your medical condition, age, response to treatment, and other medications you are taking. Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all the products you use. 

Follow the prescribed dosage and not take this medication more frequently, in larger doses, or for an extended period than directed by your physician to reduce the risk of tardive dyskinesia. 

If heartburn occurs at specific times, your physician may suggest taking a single dose before those times instead of multiple doses throughout the day. This will minimize the risk of side effects. 

To treat diabetic gastroparesis, take this medication for two to eight weeks until your gut is functioning correctly. Symptoms may recur periodically, and your doctor may instruct you to resume treatment when symptoms reappear and stop when you feel better. Ask your doctor for specific instructions for beginning and ending this medication. 

Take this medication regularly as directed to achieve maximum benefits. To assist you in remembering, take it at the same time before each meal every day. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reactions

Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction to Reglan, including: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Severe Side Effects

Stop taking Reglan and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following signs of a serious movement disorder within the first 2 days of treatment: 

• Tremors or shaking in your arms or legs 
• Uncontrolled muscle movements in your face (chewing, lip smacking, frowning, tongue movement, blinking or eye movement) 
• Any new or unusual muscle movements you cannot control 

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following: 

• Confusion, depression, or thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself 
• Slow or jerky muscle movements or problems with balance or walking 
• Mask-like appearance in your face 
• A seizure 
• Anxiety, agitation, jittery feeling, trouble staying still, or trouble sleeping 
• Swelling, feeling short of breath, or rapid weight gain 
• Severe nervous system reaction, including very stiff (rigid) muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, or feeling like you might pass out 

Common Side Effects  

• Feeling restless 
• Feeling drowsy or tired 
• Lack of energy 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Headache or confusion 
• Sleep problems (insomnia) 

Caution 

Reglan should not be administered to patients who have experienced muscle movement problems after using metoclopramide or similar medications, or those who have a history of tardive dyskinesia.  

Individuals with stomach or intestinal difficulties such as blockages, bleeding, holes, or tears, epilepsy or other seizure disorders, or adrenal gland tumors (pheochromocytoma) should not take this medication. Strictly adhere to the recommended dose of metoclopramide and not to exceed it or take it for longer than 12 weeks, as high doses or prolonged use can lead to an irreversible movement disorder.  

Diabetics and older adults, particularly women, are at a higher risk of this adverse effect. Prior to initiating Reglan therapy, patients with kidney or liver disease, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, or a history of depression should inform their physician.  

Avoid consuming alcohol while using this medication, as it can amplify certain side effects of metoclopramide.  

If any symptoms such as tremors or uncontrolled muscle movements, fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats, rapid breathing, depressed mood, thoughts of suicide or hurting oneself, hallucinations, anxiety, agitation, seizures, or jaundice occur, patients should cease using Reglan and contact their physician immediately.