Safetychecker Summary
for Metoclopramide
(for details about the summarized interactions, read the full article)
|
Willow* |
|
|
N-acetyl cysteine* |
|
| Depletion or interference |
None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability |
None known |
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
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 acetaminophen.1
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.
Interactions with Herbs
Willow
(Salix alba)
Salicylic acid is a compound formed in the body from either aspirin or willow bark. 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.2 Controlled studies are
necessary to confirm the benefit of this interaction.
Interaction with Foods and Other Compounds –––
Lactose-containing foods
Individuals who have lactose intolerance
(difficulty digesting milk sugar) may experience more severe symptoms while taking
metoclopramide.3 Lactose is the milk sugar present in dairy products.
Caffeine
A single case report described a 42-year-old man taking metoclopramide who experienced mental
depression after he abruptly quit using
caffeine.4 People who are advised to quit caffeine should probably reduce their
coffee or tea consumption gradually if they are taking metoclopramide.
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol while taking metoclopramide may significantly increase the amount and speed
of alcohol absorption, resulting in enhanced alcohol effects such as drowsiness.5
Consequently, people taking metoclopramide should avoid alcohol, especially when staying alert
is necessary.
1. Langford JS, Sheikh S. An adolescent case of sulfhemoglobinemia associated with high-dose metoclopramide and N-acetylcysteine. Ann Emerg Med 1999;34:538–41.
2. Miner JO. Drug interactions involving aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and salicylic acid. Clin Pharmacokinet 1989;17:327–44.
3. 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.
4. Wenokur B, Lessem P. Caffeine withdrawal metoclopramide, and depression. Am J Gastroenterol 1993;88:1464 [letter].
5. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 2603–5.
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The information presented in Healthnotes 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 December 2003.