DRUG OF THE DAY
metoclopramide
Dopamine D2 receptor antagonist and gastrointestinal prokinetic
Before opening the card, recall one use, one safety check and one counseling point.
Reveal the drug learning card
Names and formulations
- Reglan: oral tablet
Kidney function and CYP2D6 status or inhibitors can affect exposure; dose reduction may be required.
Common use
Short-term treatment of symptomatic, documented GERD that fails conventional therapy and relief of symptoms of acute or recurrent diabetic gastroparesis in adults.
Mechanism of action
Antagonizes dopamine D2 receptors and enhances upper-GI cholinergic activity, accelerating gastric emptying without stimulating gastric acid secretion.
Important adverse effects and monitoring
- Boxed warning: can cause tardive dyskinesia; avoid treatment longer than 12 weeks except rare situations where benefit outweighs risk.
- Monitor for involuntary movements, acute dystonia, akathisia, parkinsonism, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, depression, and sedation.
- Stop and evaluate if tardive dyskinesia symptoms develop.
Patient counseling
- Report lip smacking, tongue movements, facial grimacing, tremor, rigidity, or other uncontrolled movements promptly.
- Avoid alcohol and use caution driving until the sedating effects are known.
Interaction to recognize
With: antipsychotics
Why it matters: Adds risk of tardive dyskinesia, other extrapyramidal symptoms, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Practical response: Avoid concomitant use when possible.
Check the original sources
- DailyMed — Reglan (metoclopramide) prescribing information
Sections: Boxed Warning; 1 Indications and Usage; 2 Dosage and Administration; 5 Warnings and Precautions; 7 Drug Interactions; 12.1 Mechanism of Action; 17 Patient Counseling Information. Source checked 2026-09-13.
Selected learning points; verify current labeling for the complete prescribing information.