Metoclopramide + Paracetamol
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for metoclopramide and paracetamol
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
None
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Summary
Metoclopramide is used to treat nausea and vomiting, which are symptoms of feeling sick and throwing up. It also helps with conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease, where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, and gastroparesis, where the stomach empties slowly. Paracetamol is used to relieve pain and reduce fever, which is a high body temperature. It is commonly used for headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, backache, toothaches, colds, and fevers.
Metoclopramide works by blocking dopamine receptors, which are proteins in the brain that help transmit signals, speeding up stomach and intestine movements. Paracetamol works by reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals causing pain and inflammation, thus relieving mild to moderate pain and reducing fever. Both improve comfort but through different mechanisms, with Metoclopramide focusing on the digestive system and Paracetamol targeting pain and fever.
The usual adult dose for Metoclopramide is 10 mg taken up to three times a day, often before meals to aid digestion. Paracetamol is typically taken in doses of 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 4000 mg in a day. Both medications can be taken with or without food, but it's important to follow the dosage instructions on the label or as prescribed by a doctor.
Metoclopramide can cause side effects like drowsiness, fatigue, and restlessness, and in some cases, involuntary muscle movements. Paracetamol is generally well-tolerated but can cause side effects like nausea and rash. A significant adverse effect of Paracetamol is liver damage, which can occur with overdose or prolonged use. Both medications should be used as directed to minimize risks and side effects.
Metoclopramide should not be used by people with a history of seizures or Parkinson's disease, as it can cause involuntary muscle movements. Paracetamol can cause liver damage if taken in high doses or with alcohol, so people with liver disease should avoid it. Both medications can interact with other drugs, so it's important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking. Always follow the prescribed dosage and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of Metoclopramide and Paracetamol work?
Metoclopramide works by blocking dopamine receptors, which are proteins in the brain that help transmit signals. This action helps to speed up the movement of the stomach and intestines, making it useful for treating nausea and vomiting. It also helps with conditions where the stomach empties slowly, like gastroparesis, which is a condition where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents. Paracetamol, on the other hand, works by reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation. It is commonly used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever. Both Metoclopramide and Paracetamol are used to relieve symptoms, but they do so in different ways. Metoclopramide focuses on the digestive system, while Paracetamol targets pain and fever. They both help improve comfort and well-being, but through different mechanisms.
How effective is combination of Metoclopramide and Paracetamol?
Metoclopramide is a medication used to treat nausea and vomiting, which are symptoms of feeling sick and throwing up. It works by blocking dopamine receptors, which are parts of the brain that can trigger these symptoms. Paracetamol, on the other hand, is used to relieve pain and reduce fever, which is a high body temperature. It works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation. Both Metoclopramide and Paracetamol are effective in their roles, with Metoclopramide being particularly useful for gastrointestinal issues, and Paracetamol being a common choice for pain relief and fever reduction. They share the common attribute of being used to alleviate discomfort, though they do so through different mechanisms. Together, they can be used to manage symptoms that involve both pain and nausea, providing a comprehensive approach to symptom relief.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Metoclopramide and Paracetamol?
The usual adult daily dose for Metoclopramide, which is a medicine used to treat nausea and vomiting, is typically 10 mg taken up to three times a day. Paracetamol, which is a medicine used to relieve pain and reduce fever, is usually taken in doses of 500 mg to 1000 mg every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 4000 mg in a day. Metoclopramide works by increasing the movements or contractions of the stomach and intestines, which helps with digestion. Paracetamol works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the brain that cause pain and fever. Both medicines are used to relieve discomfort, but they work in different ways. They are often used together to manage symptoms like pain and nausea, especially after surgery or during illness. However, they should be taken as directed by a healthcare provider to avoid side effects.
How does one take combination of Metoclopramide and Paracetamol?
Metoclopramide, which is used to treat nausea and vomiting, can be taken with or without food. However, it is often recommended to take it before meals to help with digestion. There are no specific food restrictions, but alcohol should be avoided as it can increase drowsiness. Paracetamol, which is used to relieve pain and reduce fever, can also be taken with or without food. It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the label or as prescribed by a doctor. There are no specific food restrictions, but it is advisable to avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of liver damage. Both medicines can be taken without regard to meals, but caution with alcohol is advised. Always follow the guidance of a healthcare professional when using these medications.
For how long is combination of Metoclopramide and Paracetamol taken?
Metoclopramide, which is used to treat nausea and vomiting, is typically prescribed for short-term use, often not exceeding 12 weeks. This is because long-term use can lead to side effects like involuntary muscle movements. Paracetamol, which is used to relieve pain and reduce fever, can be used for both short-term and long-term management of symptoms, depending on the condition being treated. However, it should not be used for more than a few days without consulting a doctor, especially in high doses, to avoid liver damage. Both Metoclopramide and Paracetamol are used to manage symptoms rather than cure underlying conditions. They are generally well-tolerated when used as directed. However, they differ in their primary uses and potential side effects. Metoclopramide is more focused on gastrointestinal issues, while Paracetamol is a general pain reliever and fever reducer.
How long does it take for combination of Metoclopramide and Paracetamol to work?
The combination medicine you're asking about contains two active ingredients: ibuprofen and pseudoephedrine. Ibuprofen, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), typically starts working within 20 to 30 minutes to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Pseudoephedrine, which is a decongestant used to relieve nasal congestion, usually begins to work within 15 to 30 minutes. Both medicines are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, which means they start working relatively fast. However, the effects of ibuprofen may last for 4 to 6 hours, while pseudoephedrine can last for 3 to 4 hours. Together, they help relieve symptoms like pain, inflammation, and congestion. It's important to follow the dosage instructions to ensure safe and effective use.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Metoclopramide and Paracetamol?
Metoclopramide, which is used to treat nausea and vomiting, can cause side effects like drowsiness, fatigue, and restlessness. In some cases, it may lead to more serious effects such as involuntary muscle movements, which are movements that occur without the person's control. Paracetamol, which is used to relieve pain and reduce fever, is generally well-tolerated but can cause side effects like nausea and rash. A significant adverse effect of paracetamol is liver damage, which can occur with overdose or prolonged use. Both Metoclopramide and Paracetamol can cause nausea as a side effect. However, Metoclopramide is more likely to affect the nervous system, while Paracetamol is more associated with liver issues. It's important to use both medications as directed to minimize risks. Always consult a healthcare provider if you experience unusual symptoms or if you have concerns about these medications.
Can I take combination of Metoclopramide and Paracetamol with other prescription drugs?
Metoclopramide, which is used to treat nausea and vomiting, can interact with other medications that affect the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. It can increase the effects of sedatives, which are drugs that make you sleepy, and other medications that cause drowsiness. Paracetamol, which is used to relieve pain and reduce fever, is generally safe but can cause liver damage if taken in high doses or with alcohol. Both Metoclopramide and Paracetamol are metabolized by the liver, which means they are broken down by the liver. This shared attribute means that taking them together should be done with caution, especially in people with liver problems. It's important to follow the prescribed doses and consult a healthcare provider if you are taking other medications to avoid potential interactions.
Can I take combination of Metoclopramide and Paracetamol if I am pregnant?
Metoclopramide, which is a medication used to treat nausea and vomiting, is generally considered safe during pregnancy. It is often prescribed when other treatments have not worked. However, it should be used under medical supervision to ensure the benefits outweigh any potential risks. Paracetamol, which is a common pain reliever and fever reducer, is also considered safe for use during pregnancy. It is often recommended as the first choice for pain relief in pregnant women. Both Metoclopramide and Paracetamol share the attribute of being generally safe for use during pregnancy when used appropriately. However, they serve different purposes: Metoclopramide is primarily for nausea, while Paracetamol is for pain and fever. It is important for pregnant women to consult their healthcare provider before taking any medication to ensure it is appropriate for their specific situation.
Can I take combination of Metoclopramide and Paracetamol while breastfeeding?
Metoclopramide, which is a medication used to treat nausea and vomiting, is generally considered safe during breastfeeding. It passes into breast milk in small amounts, but it is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. However, it may cause side effects like drowsiness in the mother. Paracetamol, which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, is also safe for breastfeeding mothers. It is one of the most commonly used medications during lactation and is present in breast milk in very low levels, posing minimal risk to the infant. Both Metoclopramide and Paracetamol are considered safe for use during breastfeeding, with minimal risk to the infant. They share the common attribute of being present in breast milk in small amounts. However, Metoclopramide is primarily used for nausea, while Paracetamol is used for pain and fever. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding.
Who should avoid taking combination of Metoclopramide and Paracetamol?
Metoclopramide, which is used to treat nausea and vomiting, can cause serious side effects like involuntary muscle movements, especially in young adults and the elderly. It should not be used by people with a history of seizures, which are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain, or those with Parkinson's disease, which is a disorder affecting movement. Paracetamol, which is used to relieve pain and reduce fever, can cause liver damage if taken in high doses or with alcohol. People with liver disease should avoid it. Both medicines can interact with other drugs, so it's important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking. They share the common warning of potential allergic reactions, which can include symptoms like rash or difficulty breathing. Always follow the prescribed dosage and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
