Which adverse effect is associated with metoclopramide?

Which adverse effect is associated with metoclopramide?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Tardive Dyskinesia
• C. Hyperglycemia
• D. Weight gain

Answer: (B)

Dopamine receptor blockade in the central nervous system can lead to extrapyramidal symptoms, especially with drugs used long-term. Metoclopramide blocks dopamine D2 receptors in the CNS, which can produce movement disorders. The classic concern with this medication is tardive dyskinesia, a late-onset syndrome of involuntary, repetitive movements—often of the face and mouth (lip smacking, tongue protrusion) and sometimes the limbs. Because tardive dyskinesia can be persistent even after stopping the drug, it’s the adverse effect most associated with metoclopramide. Hypertension, hyperglycemia, and weight gain aren’t typical adverse effects of metoclopramide. While the drug can cause other issues like drowsiness or acute dystonias, the key risk linked to chronic use is tardive dyskinesia. Monitoring for abnormal involuntary movements is important, and the dose or duration should be limited to minimize this risk.

Dopamine receptor blockade in the central nervous system can lead to extrapyramidal symptoms, especially with drugs used long-term. Metoclopramide blocks dopamine D2 receptors in the CNS, which can produce movement disorders. The classic concern with this medication is tardive dyskinesia, a late-onset syndrome of involuntary, repetitive movements—often of the face and mouth (lip smacking, tongue protrusion) and sometimes the limbs. Because tardive dyskinesia can be persistent even after stopping the drug, it’s the adverse effect most associated with metoclopramide.

Hypertension, hyperglycemia, and weight gain aren’t typical adverse effects of metoclopramide. While the drug can cause other issues like drowsiness or acute dystonias, the key risk linked to chronic use is tardive dyskinesia. Monitoring for abnormal involuntary movements is important, and the dose or duration should be limited to minimize this risk.