Metoclopramide

It is for dogs, cats, and many other species.

• Controls vomiting and esophageal reflux

• Can be used in many species of animals

• May also help control side effects resulting from chemotherapy, such as vomiting

Metoclopramide is commonly used in many species to treat vomiting, and reflux disease. It may aid in the treatment of hairballs in rabbits, and is often prescribed to prevent the side effects of chemotherapy, such as vomiting.

When muscles in the stomach do not push the food through to the intestines, un-passed food can cause a sensation of nausea and bloating. In some cases, bile refluxes from the intestine back into the stomach, causing irritation and more nausea. Metoclopramide normalizes stomach contractions so that food and bile can pass in the correct direction. Metoclopramide also acts directly on the brain to help reduce vomiting.

This is a generic medication.

Metoclopramide is given orally with plenty of water. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian.

This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

Metoclopramide will not cure the underlying cause of the vomiting. Metoclopramide acts quite rapidly, but is short-acting, so generally must be given several times a day.

This medication comes in tablet form.

Metoclopramide

Talk to your veterinarian about what type of outcome is expected. Have your veterinarian explain the other treatment options that may be necessary to treat the cause of the vomiting in your pet.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has a history of seizures or an adrenal gland tumor called a pheochromocytoma.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, including insulin, and also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

Metoclopramide may help control the vomiting, but the underlying cause of the vomiting must also be treated.

Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to Metoclopramide. Do not use in an animal who has a stomach or intestinal blockage, or bleeding into the stomach. Do not use in an animal with a history of seizures. Metoclopramide could cause seizures.

Do not use in an animal with an adrenal tumor called a pheochromocytoma. It could result in a potentially fatal increase in blood pressure.

Use with caution in pregnant or lactating animals (female animals nursing their young). Metoclopramide can cross the placenta and enter the milk.

The most common side effect is constipation. May also see behavior and attitude changes such as disorientation and frenzy. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of the above side effects.

If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container. Metoclopramide is destroyed by light. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

May see sleepiness, staggering, agitation, seizures, vomiting, constipation, a rigid posture or involuntary movement of the eyes and limbs. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Consult your veterinarian before using Metoclopramide with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, since interactions may occur.

Because Metoclopramide increases the movement of stomach and intestinal contents, it can affect the absorption of many oral drugs. Metoclopramide may change the insulin requirements of diabetic animals. Sedatives and tranquilizers may increase the chance of behavior and attitude changes caused by Metoclopramide.