Baby Jessica has been diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease and placed on metoclopramide (Reglan). Her mother calls the clinic because she does not think the medication is helping and feels that Jessica has developed loose stools.
a) What are the therapeutic actions of metoclopramide?
b) What are the most common adverse effects of metoclopramide, and when should Jessica’s mother worry?
A. ANS: Metoclopramide is used as a short-term treatment (4 to 12 weeks) for the treatment of certain conditions of the intestine and stomach. Treating persistent heart burn can decrease the damage done by stomach acid to the swallowing tube (esophagus) and help healing.
Metoclopramide is also used in diabetic patients who have poor emptying of their stomachs (gastroparesis). Treating gastroparesis can decrease symptoms of abdominal/stomach fullness vomting and nausea.
B. ANS: The most common adverse effects of metoclopramide is uncontrolled muscle movements/ muscle spasms. Metoclopramide drug is not recommended for use in children due to its increased risk of its side effects, so Jessica’s mother is worried.
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