Maxolon (Metoclopramide)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Maxolon Used For?
Maxolon is used to manage nausea and vomiting in adults and children, as well as to assist with gastrointestinal motility.
Primary Uses
It treats nausea and vomiting due to various causes, including infections, migraines, kidney disease, childbirth, medications, cancer, and post-surgery effects. It also helps in diagnosing gastrointestinal issues and assists with tube placements.
How It Works
Maxolon blocks a chemical in the brain that triggers nausea and vomiting while also enhancing muscle contractions in the stomach and intestines.
Good to know: Maxolon is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Maxolon
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully when taking Maxolon.
Dosage Instructions
Dosage varies by age and reason for use. Adults typically take 10 mg every 8 hours, while children’s doses are adjusted based on weight and age. Do not exceed 0.5 mg/kg body weight or 30 mg daily.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Important: Never double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- drowsiness
- tiredness
- restlessness
- dizziness
- headache
- bowel irregularities
- insomnia
- anxiety
- agitation
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- uncontrolled movements (e.g., lip smacking, tongue darting)
- fast heartbeat
- depression
- swelling of hands, ankles, or feet
- allergic reactions (e.g., swelling, difficulty breathing)
- sudden muscle spasms or stiffness
- neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Impulse Control Issues
Monitor for any unusual behaviors or impulse control problems.
Important Warnings
There are specific situations where Maxolon should not be taken.
Who Should Not Take Maxolon
Do not take Maxolon if you are allergic to metoclopramide, have active bleeding in the digestive tract, a blockage in the stomach, recent stomach surgery, phaeochromocytoma, epilepsy, or are taking certain antipsychotic medications.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have allergies, Parkinson's disease, liver or kidney issues, high blood pressure, or asthma.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding to discuss potential risks.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Use caution when prescribing Maxolon to elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Maxolon may interact with various medications.
Grapefruit interaction: No grapefruit interaction mentioned.
- tranquilizers or anti-anxiety medications
- strong pain relievers (e.g., codeine, morphine)
- sedatives or sleeping medications
- atropine-like medications
- tetracycline antibiotics
- paracetamol
- levodopa
- digoxin
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol and driving while taking Maxolon.
Alcohol
Alcohol may enhance drowsiness caused by Maxolon.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Dizziness and drowsiness may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery safely.
Temperature Regulation
No specific temperature regulation warnings mentioned.
Storage
Store Maxolon in its original packaging in a cool, dry place below 30°C for tablets and below 25°C for injections. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
In case of overdose, contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre immediately. Symptoms may include drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, headache, agitation, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and muscle spasms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Maxolon typically starts to work within 30 minutes after taking it.
It is recommended to take Maxolon 30 minutes before meals for optimal effect.
No, Maxolon is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Maxolon to discuss any potential risks.
It is advisable to avoid alcohol as it may increase drowsiness.
Weight gain is not listed as a common side effect of Maxolon.
Elderly patients, especially those with dementia, should use Maxolon with caution.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but do not double up on doses.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.