How and when to take metoclopramide - Brand name: Maxolon

Always take metoclopramide as a doctor or pharmacist has told you.

Dosage

Metoclopramide comes as tablets or a liquid that you swallow.

Doses can vary, depending on why you need metoclopramide.

The usual adult dose is 10mg, taken up to 3 times a day.

Doses are lower for adults who weigh less than 60kg, and for people with a liver or kidney problem.

If your child is prescribed metoclopramide, the doctor will use your child's age and weight to work out the right dose.

How to take it

You can take metoclopramide with or without food.

Swallow the tablets whole, with a drink of water.

If you're taking metoclopramide liquid, use the plastic syringe or medicine spoon that comes with your medicine to measure out the right dose. If you do not have one, ask your pharmacist. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as it will not measure the right amount.

Try to spread your doses evenly over 24 hours. If you take it 3 times a day, then take a dose every 8 hours.

Wait at least 6 hours between each dose, even if you're sick (vomit). This is to avoid a possible overdose.

How long to take it for

How long you take metoclopramide for depends on why you're taking it. It's usually only prescribed short-term, for up to 5 days.

If you're taking it for migraine, you'll only take it when you have symptoms. You will not need to take it every day.

For nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy or radiotherapy, take it for as long as your doctor tells you to.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you're unsure how long you need to take metoclopramide for.

If you forget to take it

If you forget to take your dose of metoclopramide, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time.

Never take 2 doses at the same time. Never take an extra dose to make up for a forgotten one.

If you forget doses often, it might help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask a pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.

If you take too much

If you take 1 extra dose of metoclopramide, it's unlikely to be harmful, however, taking more than this can be dangerous.

Call a doctor or contact 111 if:

• you take 2 or more extra doses of metoclopramide, even if you feel well
• you get symptoms such as muscle spasms, shaking, tremor, drowsiness, confusion or hallucinations (seeing things that are not there).