Main content Metoclopramide

Metoclopramide

Drug Information

Metoclopramide is used to treat Reference heartburn and regurgitation; to prevent vomiting in people receiving drugs to treat cancer; and to prevent nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and fullness after a meal in certain individuals with Reference diabetes.

Common brand names:

Maxolon, Octamide PFS, Reglan

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods

Reference What Are Nutrient Interactions

Types of interactions: Beneficial Adverse Check

Replenish Depleted Nutrients

none

Reduce Side Effects

none

Support Medicine

Reference White Willow

Salicylic acid is a compound formed in the body from either Reference aspirin or willow bark (Salix alba). Taking metoclopramide before aspirin or willow bark results in higher concentrations of salicylic acid and greater pain relief in people suffering from an acute migraine headache.¹ Controlled studies are necessary to confirm the benefit of this interaction.

The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Reduces Effectiveness

none

Potential Negative Interaction

Foods with Lactose

Individuals who have Reference lactose intolerance (difficulty digesting milk sugar) may experience more severe symptoms while taking metoclopramide.² Lactose is the milk sugar present in dairy products.

The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Reference N-Acetyl Cysteine

A single case report described a 15-year-old girl who suffered oxygen deprivation in her body tissues after being given high amounts of metoclopramide and N-acetyl-cysteine to treat her for an overdose of Reference acetaminophen.³ It is unknown whether N-acetyl-cysteine supplementation in the absence of acetaminophen overdose could cause similar effects in people taking metoclopramide. Until controlled research determines the safety of this combination, it should be used only under the supervision of a qualified physician.

The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Explanation Required

none

The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

References

1. Miner JO. Drug interactions involving aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and salicylic acid. Clin Pharmacokinet 1989;17:327–44.

2. Peuhkuri K, Vapaatalo H, Nevala R, Korpela R. Influence of the pharmacological modification of gastric emptying on lactose digestion and gastrointestinal symptoms. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 1999;13:81–6.

3. Langford JS, Sheikh S. An adolescent case of sulfhemoglobinemia associated with high-dose metoclopramide and N-acetylcysteine. Ann Emerg Med 1999;34:538–41.

Last Review: 11-07-2012

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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2013.

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