Metoclopramide: Pharmacology and Clinical Application

  1. RIYAD ALBIBI, M.D.; and
  2. RICHARD W. McCALLUM, M.D.
  1. New Haven, Connecticut

    Excerpt

    Metoclopramide antagonizes the effect of dopamine in the central nervous system and other organ systems. Metoclopramide's effect on the medullary chemoreceptor trigger zone makes it useful as a routine anti-emetic and in preventing vomiting induced by antineoplastic drugs, particularly cisplatin. Metoclopramide's gastrointestinal smooth muscle stimulatory effects are related to its ability to antagonize the inhibitory neurotransmitter, dopamine; to augment acetylcholine release and sensitize the muscarinic receptors of the gastrointestinal smooth muscle; and to coordinate gastric-pyloric-small intestinal motor function. The indications for which metoclopramide is approved in the United States are reviewed. Adverse effects, which may occur in up to 20%

    Article and Author Information

    • From the Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Yale University School of Medicine; New Haven, Connecticut.

    • ▸Requests for reprints should be addressed to Richard W. McCallum, M.D.; Yale University School of Medicine, Gastroenterology Section, 92 LMP, 333 Cedar Street; New Haven, CT 06510.

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    1. Ann Intern Med January 1, 1983 vol. 98 no. 1 86-95
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