Metoclopramide Risks: What You Need to Know Before Taking It

When you’re stuck with nausea that won’t quit, metoclopramide, a dopamine blocker used to treat nausea and stomach emptying issues. Also known as Reglan, it’s been around for decades and works fast—but it’s not harmless. Many people take it without knowing the real dangers, especially if they use it longer than two weeks. The biggest risk? tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder causing uncontrollable facial tics, lip smacking, or tongue thrusting. Once it shows up, it might never go away—even after you stop the drug.

It’s not just about long-term use. Older adults, people with diabetes, and those on high doses are hit hardest. The FDA even issued a black box warning—the strongest kind—for this reason. dopamine blockers, like metoclopramide, interfere with brain signals that control movement. That’s why they help with nausea (by blocking signals in the brain’s vomiting center), but also why they can mess with your muscles. And it’s not just the face: some people develop stiff limbs, trouble walking, or even trouble swallowing. These aren’t rare side effects—they’re well-documented, and they happen more often than most doctors admit.

What’s worse? Many patients are prescribed metoclopramide for things it’s not meant for—like mild morning sickness or occasional upset stomach. It’s not a first-line treatment anymore. For pregnancy nausea, ginger or B6 are safer. For gastroparesis, there are newer options with fewer risks. Even for chemo-induced nausea, ondansetron often does the job better and cleaner. And if you’re on it for more than 12 weeks? You’re in danger zone. The risk of tardive dyskinesia jumps sharply after that point.

There’s no blood test to predict who’ll get it. No way to know until it’s too late. That’s why doctors should check in every few weeks if you’re taking it. Watch for subtle signs: blinking more than usual, chewing motions without food, or your jaw moving on its own. If you notice any of this, tell your provider—don’t wait. Stopping metoclopramide early can sometimes stop the damage from getting worse.

Below, you’ll find real, practical advice from people who’ve been there. We’ve pulled together posts that cover everything from how metoclopramide compares to other anti-nausea drugs, to what to do if you’re already experiencing side effects, to how insurers decide whether to cover it at all. You’ll see how it stacks up against alternatives like domperidone (not available in the U.S. but used elsewhere), why some people end up on it for years without knowing the risks, and how to talk to your doctor about switching safely. This isn’t just about avoiding a bad reaction—it’s about knowing when to say no, and when to ask for something better.