Metoclopramide

Anti-nausea, gut motility
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Metoclopramide is a anti-nausea, gut motility found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Perinorm. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Relieves nausea and vomiting and helps the stomach empty.

How it works

Blocks dopamine to stop nausea and vomiting and speed stomach emptying; used for migraine nausea and after surgery.

How to take it

Usually 10 mg up to three times a day for no more than 5 days. Not for under 18s except in special cases.

Common side effects

  • Drowsiness
  • Restlessness
  • Diarrhoea

Get medical help straight away if

  • Uncontrolled movements of face, eyes, tongue or neck
  • Stiffness
  • High fever with stiff muscles

Be careful

Use for no more than 5 days; can cause restlessness or abnormal movements, especially in the young.

Other medicines and interactions

Do not combine with levodopa, antipsychotics or other dopamine blockers. Opioids and anticholinergics weaken it.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Can be used in pregnancy when needed; small amounts pass into breast milk.

Brands of Metoclopramide (1)

Perinorm

Common questions

What is Metoclopramide used for?

Relieves nausea and vomiting and helps the stomach empty.

How does Metoclopramide work?

Blocks dopamine to stop nausea and vomiting and speed stomach emptying; used for migraine nausea and after surgery.

How should I take Metoclopramide?

Usually 10 mg up to three times a day for no more than 5 days. Not for under 18s except in special cases.

What are the side effects of Metoclopramide?

Common: Drowsiness, restlessness, diarrhoea. Get help straight away for: Uncontrolled movements of face, eyes, tongue or neck, stiffness, high fever with stiff muscles.

Does Metoclopramide interact with other medicines?

Do not combine with levodopa, antipsychotics or other dopamine blockers. Opioids and anticholinergics weaken it.

Is Metoclopramide safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Can be used in pregnancy when needed; small amounts pass into breast milk.

Does Metoclopramide need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Metoclopramide?

Perinorm.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.