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Metoclopramide

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Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Metoclopramide is used to increase the movements or contractions of the stomach and intestines. It may be used to relieve the symptoms of vomiting and heartburn (gastro-esophageal reflux). This medication may be used for other conditions as determined by your veterinarian.

How do I give this medication?metoclopramide-1

  • Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
  • If the medicine is a liquid, measure the dose with reasonable care.
  • Try to give this medication at about the same time(s) each day.
  • DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed.
  • DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.
  • Try not to miss giving any doses.

What do I do if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

  • Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
  • Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
  • Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

What are the potential side effects?

"Notify your veterinarian if the pet has involuntary movements of the eyes, face or limbs or if it has a rigid posture."
  • Your pet may experience some dizziness, hyperactivity, depression, disorientation, constipation or an increase in seizure activity (if prone to seizures). If these symptoms appear excessive or persist, contact your veterinarian.
  • Notify your veterinarian if the pet has involuntary movements of the eyes, face or limbs or if it has a rigid posture.
  • Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Are there any possible drug interactions?

  • Make sure to tell your veterinarian if you are giving your pet any other medication or supplements.
  • Quite often, your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and sometimes a drug interaction may be anticipated. If this occurs, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
  • The following drugs can potentially interact with metoclopramide: phenothiazines, digoxin, cimetidine, tetracycline, narcotic agents, sedatives, acetaminophen, aspirin, diazepam, tetracycline, atropine, and butyrephenones.
  • Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

REMEMBER!  READ THE LABEL.

© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Jul 28, 2016.