Drug Information
Metoclopramide is used to treat
heartburn
and regurgitation; to prevent vomiting in people receiving drugs to treat cancer; and to prevent nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and fullness after a meal in certain individuals with
diabetes
.
Common brand names:
Maxolon, Octamide PFS, Reglan
Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods
Types of interactions:
Beneficial
Adverse
Check
Replenish Depleted Nutrients
Support Medicine
-
White Willow
Salicylic acid is a compound formed in the body from either
aspirin
or willow bark (Salix alba). 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.1 Controlled studies are necessary to confirm the benefit of this interaction.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Potential Negative Interaction
-
Foods with Lactose
Individuals who have
lactose intolerance
(difficulty digesting milk sugar) may experience more severe symptoms while taking metoclopramide.2 Lactose is the milk sugar present in dairy products.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
-
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
.3 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.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.
References
1. Miner JO. Drug interactions involving aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and salicylic acid. Clin Pharmacokinet 1989;17:327–44.
2. 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.
3. Langford JS, Sheikh S. An adolescent case of sulfhemoglobinemia associated with high-dose metoclopramide and N-acetylcysteine. Ann Emerg Med 1999;34:538–41.
