Explanation

Metoclopramide is a medicine you take with chemotherapy or radiotherapy to stop you from feeling sick and/or being sick. It is called an anti-emetic drug.

It belongs to a family of medicines called dopaminergic blockers.

What does metoclopramide do?

Metoclopramide works on the muscles in your stomach to help stop you feeling sick and/or being sick.

What does it look like?

Metoclopramide is available as an injection, a liquid and a tablet.

When do I have to take it?

Metoclopramide works best if you take it before AND after you have your chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Your doctor will tell you exactly how often you need to take it.

You usually take metoclopramide just before you have your treatment, and then two or three times a day after that.

But what if I don't feel like taking it?

If you stop taking your metoclopramide, then you will may start feeling sick or being sick again.

It is important to keep taking the metoclopramide regularly to prevent nausea and sickness. Don't wait until you feel sick to take it because it works best if you take it so that you don't feel sick in the first place.

What should I do if I forget to take it?

If you are getting metoclopramide in hospital, then your doctor or nurse will make sure you get the right amount at the right time, so you don't have to worry about remembering when to take it.

If you take metoclopramide at home, your doctor will give you a timetable that you need to follow. It might be a good idea to set the alarm on your phone or something, so that you remember when you need to take it.

If you do forget to take your metoclopramide, don't worry - just take it as soon as you remember.

If it is nearly time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and carry on with the next dose as planned.

How much do I take?

That depends on how much you weigh and the type of chemotherapy or radiotherapy you are on. Your doctor will decide the perfect dose for you.

The right dose is important. It's the best way to help you feel better, without getting side effects .

What are the most likely side effects I might I get if I take metoclopramide?

The side effects that you are most likely to have after taking metoclopramide are:

Feeling sleepy, light headed, or you can't think clearly

Feeling dizzy

Headache

Tummy ache

Diarrhea (runny poos)

Feeling restless

Finding it hard to sleep

Sleeping more than usual

Metoclopramide might also have an effect on your muscles - usually the muscles on your face and head. You might notice that you feel a bit shaky, your eyes might move by themselves, or your neck might twist back. Your tongue might move as well, which can make it hard to speak properly. Other muscles in your body might feel stiff, and you might find it hard to move your arms and your legs. If you notice any of these things, tell your doctor straight away.

Metoclopramide might make you feel a bit sleepy. This doesn't happen to everyone, but if it happens to you make sure you take extra care when doing things like riding on your scooter or your bicycle, or rollerskating. You need to be careful if you're using sharp objects too, like scissors. You don't want to have an accident!

What other side effects might I get?

Other, less likely, side effects that you could get with metoclopramide include:

Feeling confused

Really sad feelings (depression)

Swollen breasts (in girls and boys)

Skin rash, itchiness and swelling

Are there any other side effects that you haven't mentioned?

Some side effects are more serious than others. The following side effects are rare (so you're unlikely to notice any of them), but it is important to look out for them, just in case.

Stop taking metoclopramide and tell a doctor straight away if you show signs of an allergic reaction. These are things like:

swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, making it hard to breathe or swallow.

itchy skin or a rash with raised lumps

Also if you show signs of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS). These are things like:

your heart beating really fast

sweating or feeling really hot

stiff muscles

unconsciousness

Also if you show signs of having a problem with your blood. These are things like:

problems breathing

having a headache and feeling very tired

your lips, the skin under your nails, and your ears might look blue

Tell your doctor if you do notice any side effects , or if you notice anything else strange or unusual after taking metoclopramide.

Is it safe for me to be taking metoclopramide?

Before using metoclopramide, you should tell the doctor about any other medical problems that you know you have.

Especially if:

You have epilepsy

You have had an operation on your stomach in the last few days

You have a blockage in your stomach

You have had a bleed or rip in your stomach in the past

You have high blood pressure due to phaeochromocytoma

You have a problem with your liver or kidneys

You have a problem called porphyria

And remember to tell your doctor if you have any allergies - to metoclopramide or anything else. Metoclopramide also contains lactose (a type of sugar), which can cause an allergic reaction in some people, so make sure you tell your doctor about any allergies you might have.

Is it OK for me to take metoclopramide if I'm already taking other medicines?

Make sure you tell your doctor about all the other medicines you're taking.

You should also mention things that you're taking for other medical problems, including drugs, special foods or herbal remedies.

It's especially important to tell your doctor if you're taking any of the following medicines:

Painkillers (like aspirin or paracetamol)

Ciclosporin (which you might take if you have had a transplant)

Medicines called anticholinergics

Medicines that act on your brain. These medicines might be used to treat problems like ADHD, epilepsy, schizophrenia or depression (really sad feelings)

Medicines that might cause damage to your liver

Mexiletine (which you might take if you have a heart problem)

Atovaquone (which you might take if you have pneumonia)

Medicines containing opioids (for example, codeine)

What if I have any more questions?

If you have any other questions, you can ask your doctor, or chat to other people with cancer in the Medikidz forums and virtual world, Mediland.