metoclopramide
Metoclopramide is used to relieve heartburn and speed the healing of ulcers and sores in the esophagus (tube that connects the mouth to the stomach) in people who have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD; condition in which backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and injury of the esophagus) that did not get better with other treatments. Metoclopramide is also used to relieve symptoms caused by slow stomach emptying in people who have diabetes. These symptoms include nausea, vomiting, heartburn, loss of appetite, and feeling of fullness that lasts long after meals. Metoclopramide is in a class of medications called prokinetic agents. It works by speeding the movement of food through the stomach and intestines.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking metoclopramide affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
It is not known whether metoclopramide affects fertility. There have been some reports of menstrual problems and galactorrhea (milk production unrelated to breastfeeding) with metoclopramide use, and these issues might make it harder to get pregnant. Anyone with concerns about fertility while taking this medication should discuss them with their healthcare provider.
Does taking metoclopramide increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons. A small number of studies did not find an increased chance of miscarriage with metoclopramide use in pregnancy. Questions about personal risk are best discussed with a healthcare provider.
Does taking metoclopramide increase the risk of birth defects?
In every pregnancy, there is a background chance of about 3 in 100 for a birth defect. According to the available research summarized in the fact sheet, taking metoclopramide during pregnancy has not been shown to increase the chance of birth defects. Individual circumstances should be reviewed with a healthcare provider.
Can taking metoclopramide during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
Taking metoclopramide has not been shown to increase the chance of other pregnancy-related problems, such as preterm delivery (birth before week 37) or low birth weight (less than 2500 grams). Any specific concerns about pregnancy outcomes should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Can taking metoclopramide during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
It is not known whether metoclopramide can increase the chance of behavior or learning issues in the child. One study reported an increased chance of attention deficit hyperactive disorder or other neurodevelopmental delays, but it had important limitations, and a single study is not enough to draw firm conclusions. This is a good topic to explore further with a healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking metoclopramide?
Metoclopramide passes into breast milk in varied amounts, but the amount ingested by a breastfed child is expected to be low, and most reports have not described side effects in nursing infants. In rare cases, gastrointestinal issues such as stomach discomfort or gas have been reported; if a baby seems to have symptoms, the child's healthcare provider should be contacted. Metoclopramide is sometimes used as a galactagogue, but study results on whether it increases milk supply are mixed, so breastfeeding questions are best discussed with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant.
Source: MotherToBaby Fact Sheet
metoclopramide