Metoclopramide neurological side effects screening; a pharmacovigilence study in Romanian community pharmacies

• Main Authors: Emil Ștefănescu, Mihaela Pleșu, Corina Scutari, Adrian Junghină, Horațiu Mireșan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Ion Motofei, Carol Davila University 2015-04-01
• Series: Journal of Mind and Medical Sciences
• Subjects: metoclopramide; neurological side effects; pharmacovigilence
• Online Access: http://www.jmms.ro/download_counter/viewer.php?id=61

Background. Metoclopramide is a pharmacological agent frequently used in therapy against nausea and vomiting that can occur in indigestion, motion sickness, gastric ulcer, pyloric spasm and after surgery as a side effect of some anesthetics. Knowing the frequency and intensity of metoclopramide neurological side effects is essential for an efficient management of the dysfunctions it addresses. Material and method. Based on a standard questionnaire containing questions regarding metoclopramide therapy, we analyzed the answers given by 1000 patients or patient tutors in 20 open circuit pharmacies situated all over Bucharest. All subjects freely consented to participate in this study that was coordinated only by pharmacists. Results. Our study highlights the fact that in certain situations having to do with the age of patients, with the use of multiple drugs or with the tendency to self medicate, the neurological side effects of metoclopramide can reach dangerous levels. In some cases it might even be necessary to immediately interrupt metoclopramide therapy, despite its positive benefit/ risk ratio. Conclusions. Respecting the physician’s recommendations, avoiding self medication and reporting side effects as quickly as possible, are essential elements for minimizing the consequences of metoclopramide side effects.