Metoclopramide is used in veterinary medicine to stimulate the motility of the upper GI tract. It has minimal effect on the lower GI tract and colon. Metoclopramide increases peristalsis of the small intestine and increases tone and strength of contractions in the stomach, while causing relaxation of the pyloric sphincter. Consequently, metoclopramide speeds gastric-emptying and, possibly, intestinal transit times. It does not stimulate gastric, pancreatic, or biliary secretions.
Metoclopramide acts as a central antiemetic by blocking the uptake of dopamine at the chemo receptor trigger zone in dogs. Additionally, part of its actions on the upper GI tract include increasing the sphincter pressure in the lower esophagus and reducing gastroesophageal reflux, which also may be helpful for decreasing vomiting.
Description
Metoclopramide is well-absorbed orally. It penetrates the central nervous system (CNS) well, which may be relevant because of CNS side-effects. Metoclopramide crosses the placenta and is concentrated in milk at twice the level found in plasma. It is excreted primarily in the urine.
Metoclopramide is a drug used to treat nausea, vomiting, and acid reflux in dogs by helping food pass quickly through the upper digestive tract. It works by increasing the release of acetylcholine, which causes the muscles of the digestive tract to contract more frequently and pass food and bile that has built up in the stomach. It can also strengthen the muscles of the upper gastrointestinal tract and the esophagus. This drug should only be given to dogs with a prescription from a veterinarian, and instructions should be strictly followed. You can easily order metoclopramide online from Chewy’s pharmacy with your vet’s prescription. Here’s what you should know about the uses, dosage, and side effects of metoclopramide for dogs.
Features of Metoclopramide For Dogs
- Metoclopramide, also known by the brand name Reglan®, is a drug commonly used for management of vomiting and gastrointestinal disorders in dogs and cats. The drug is classified as an anti-emetic (anti-vomiting) drug.
- Metoclopramide blocks the chemical dopamine in parts of the brain to provide a central anti-vomiting effect.
- Metoclopramide also stimulates the contraction of the stomach and of the upper portion of the small intestine. These actions occur without stimulating secretions of digestive enzymes.
- Metoclopramide also increases the pressure at the lower esophageal sphincter. This can reduce or prevent stomach acid from entering the esophagus (a condition called gastroesophageal reflux).
- The drug is also used to stimulate stomach and intestinal motility when these motions are abnormally reduced.
- Metoclopramide is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.
- This drug is not approved for use in animals by the Food and Drug Administration but it is prescribed legally by veterinarians as an extra-label drug.
Uses/benefits of Metoclopramide For Dogs
Veterinarians often use metoclopramide as an antiemetic to prevent vomiting and nausea in dogs. It’s particularly effective, as the drug is able to cross the blood-brain barrier and block dopamine. This reduces the urge to vomit.
Nausea is also reduced when the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract contract and move built-up food and bile out of the stomach.
The drug treats acid reflux by aiding in digestion and strengthening muscles in the upper gastrointestinal tract and esophagus, though it has minimal effect on the lower digestive tract.
Dosage
The standard dosage of metoclopramide for dogs is 0.1 to 0.2 mg per lb of body weight, 2 to 4 times daily. This medication is available as an injectable solution, oral solution, and 5 mg and 10 mg oral tablets. Most vets prescribe the tablet form for canines since it doesn’t contain artificial sweeteners and is easier to administer than other formulations. Crush the metoclopramide tablet and mix it thoroughly into wet food. You’ll need to give this medication every 6 to 8 hours or according to your vet’s recommendation. Your vet may instruct you to administer metoclopramide 30 minutes before feeding your dog to help them keep food down.
Depending on your pet’s size, you may have to divide the pill into segments before crushing to ensure the right dose.
Side Effects and Drug Reactions
Metoclopramide may result in these side effects:
- Increases seizure activity in epileptics
- Sedation
- Hyperactivity
- Changes in behavior
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
Metoclopramide may react with these drugs:
- Cimetidine
- Acetominophen
- Aspirin
- Central nervous system depressant or sedative
- Derivatives of Tetracycline
- Anticholinergic
- Anticoagulant
- Diazepam
Specification
- Drug Name: Metoclopramide
- Common Name: Reglan®, Clopra®, Maxalon®, Octamide®, Reclomide®
- Drug Type: Gastrointestinal prokinetic
- Used For: Megaesophagus, Acid reflux, Megacolon
- Species: Dogs, Cats
- Administered: 5mg, 10mg tablets, Oral liquid, Injectable
- How Dispensed: Prescription only
- FDA Approved: No
Prices of Metoclopramide For Dogs
$39.95 – $79.95