Cloprame

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Cloprame

What is Cloprame?

Cloprame is a pharmacological agent primarily classified as a dopamine antagonist. It is utilized in clinical settings to address various gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms by influencing the movement of the upper digestive tract and interacting with specific receptors in the brain.

Mechanism of Action

The medication works through two primary pathways:

  • Prokinetic Activity: It stimulates the muscles of the gastrointestinal system, accelerating gastric emptying and shortening the transit time of food from the stomach into the small intestine.
  • Antiemetic Properties: By blocking dopamine receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone—a specific area of the brain responsible for initiating the vomiting reflex—it helps to inhibit sensations of nausea and the physical act of vomiting.

Common Clinical Uses

Cloprame is typically employed to manage conditions where gastric motility is impaired or where nausea is a significant symptom. These conditions may include:

  • Gastroparesis: A condition where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents, often associated with diabetes.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux: Assisting in cases where delayed stomach emptying contributes to the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: Management of these symptoms when they are induced by other medical treatments or specific digestive disorders.

Physical Characteristics

As a therapeutic compound, Cloprame is available in various formulations, including oral tablets, liquid solutions, and injectable forms, allowing for flexibility based on the patient's specific needs and the clinical setting.

Regulatory References

  1. Metoclopramide: MedlinePlus
  2. NLM MedlinePlus Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Cloprame?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for Metoclopramide (Cloprame) is formally classified by regulatory authorities based on the frequency and the physiological system affected. Adverse reactions are grouped across several system-organ classes, with the most commonly reported effects involving the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract.

Official Adverse Reaction Classifications

Adverse reactions are classified by frequency in official documents:

  • Very Common: Somnolence (drowsiness).
  • Common: Diarrhoea, Asthenia (loss of strength), Depression, Restlessness, and initial neurological symptoms such as Extrapyramidal disorders (EPS), Parkinsonism, and Akathisia.
  • Uncommon to Rare: Include Bradycardia (slow heart rate), Dystonia, Confusion, Convulsion (seizures), Hallucination, and endocrine effects like Hyperprolactinaemia.
  • Not Known: Serious reactions with an unconfirmed frequency include Tardive Dyskinesia (TD), Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), Cardiac arrest, and Methaemoglobinaemia.

Serious Reactions and Safety Patterns

Official labeling highlights the risk of several serious adverse reactions. The risk of Extrapyramidal disorders is usually highest at the beginning of treatment and can occur after a single administration. Conversely, the risk of developing Tardive Dyskinesia is officially stated to increase with the duration of treatment.

Safety statements address specific patient groups. Children and young adults have a higher susceptibility to EPS, while elderly patients face an increased risk of Tardive Dyskinesia and serious Cardiovascular reactions. Regulatory constraints dictate that Metoclopramide is contraindicated in the presence of certain conditions, including gastrointestinal hemorrhage or obstruction, Epilepsy, and prior history of Tardive Dyskinesia.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Cloprame Overdose and When to Seek Help — Official Regulatory Information

The official overdose profile for Cloprame (Metoclopramide) is primarily characterized by central nervous system and cardiovascular manifestations, as documented by regulatory authorities.

Overdose Scope (Officially Documented) Details from Regulatory Labeling
Documented Overdose Presentations Drowsiness, disorientation, convulsions, and decreased level of consciousness or coma [Source 1.1]. Extrapyramidal reactions (involuntary movements like dystonia) are also noted [Source 1.1].
Physiological Systems Affected Central Nervous System, Cardiovascular System (risk of cardiorespiratory arrest), and Hematologic System (risk of Methemoglobinemia) [Source 1.1, 1.3].
Population-Specific Overdose Notes Neonates and infants have an increased risk of Methemoglobinemia and severe neurological reactions following unintentional overdose [Source 1.1]. Children and young adults are considered more susceptible to Extrapyramidal reactions [Source 1.3].
Emergency-Response Statements Seek medical attention immediately [Source 2.2]. In case of overdose, contact emergency services if the individual has collapsed, had a seizure, or cannot be awakened [Source 1.1].

Overdose Management and Classification (High-Level) Details from Regulatory Labeling
Severity Classification Overdose may involve severe or life-threatening outcomes, including cardiorespiratory arrest [Source 1.3].
Antidote Status No specific antidote is known for Metoclopramide itself [Source 1.1]. Treatment is described as symptomatic and supportive, although specific agents (e.g., anticholinergics) may be used to manage the documented Extrapyramidal reactions [Source 1.1].

Connection to the overall overdose profile

Regulatory documents define the Cloprame overdose profile by its potential for serious central nervous system and cardiovascular events, including Extrapyramidal reactions, coma, and cardiorespiratory arrest. This mandates that individuals seek immediate medical attention and professional monitoring due to the severity of documented outcomes. The official guidance specifically requires contacting emergency services when severe symptoms, such as seizures or unresponsiveness, are present.

Therapeutic Uses of Cloprame

Cloprame plays a role in managing symptomatic stability in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms and physiological distress. The medicine is considered relevant for symptomatic support, specifically targeting gastrointestinal function.


Addressing Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders

This domain covers conditions associated with symptoms related to organ-specific functional stress, particularly those involving slow emptying of the stomach, such as Diabetic Gastroparesis. Cloprame is relevant for managing symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, including nausea, vomiting, persistent fullness after meals, and heartburn due to delayed movement. It supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing the overall symptom load related to impaired digestion.

The medicine may assist with symptomatic management in key indications, including symptomatic Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Diabetic Gastroparesis, and the prevention or treatment of nausea and vomiting associated with acute migraine, chemotherapy, or surgical procedures.

“The goal is to provide supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities, contributing to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms.”

Managing Pronounced Nausea and Vomiting

Cloprame is also commonly used to help with symptoms that interfere with daily functioning by providing anti-sickness relief in various settings. This is relevant when supportive symptom management is appropriate for episodes of sickness associated with conditions like acute migraine, or when symptoms escalate temporarily following chemotherapy or certain surgical procedures. It assists with maintaining functional stability by offering symptomatic relief during these acute, disruptive episodes.


Quick Fact: Relevant for Symptoms of Gastric Stasis (Symptoms of slow stomach emptying)


Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who Can and Cannot Use Cloprame — Official Regulatory Information

The eligibility profile for Cloprame is stringently defined by global regulatory agencies, primarily to mitigate the risk of serious neurological side effects with prolonged exposure. This framework establishes absolute prohibitions and strict conditions for use across various patient groups.


Eligibility Scope

Category Official Regulatory Statements
Populations for whom use is allowed Adults are the main eligible population for approved short-term use, subject to duration limits.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Infants under 1 year are absolutely prohibited from using this medicine. Contraindication also applies to patients with Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage, Obstruction, or Perforation, a history of Phaeochromocytoma, Epilepsy, or prior Metoclopramide-induced Tardive Dyskinesia.
Age-related eligibility rules Pediatric use (1–18 years) is severely restricted, often limited to a second-line option for specific conditions like post-chemotherapy nausea. Older adults require special caution, monitoring, and may need a reduced starting dose.
Condition-specific eligibility rules Patients with Severe Renal or Hepatic Impairment are only eligible if the dose is officially reduced by 50% or more to prevent drug accumulation.
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility Avoidance is recommended at the end of pregnancy and use is generally not recommended during breastfeeding.
Eligibility-related restrictions All patients are subject to a mandatory restriction on the duration of therapy, which must not exceed 5 days (EMA) or 12 weeks (FDA) to limit neurological risks.

Connection to the Overall Eligibility Profile

Regulatory documents define who can and cannot use Cloprame based on a balance of efficacy and a recognized risk of neurological adverse events, resulting in stringent, label-based restrictions. The profile establishes absolute contraindications for specific medical conditions and age groups, and applies a mandatory, short-term duration limit to all eligible users, while permitting conditional eligibility for patients with impaired organ function. This structure explicitly delineates permitted, restricted, and prohibited populations as determined by governmental health authorities.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Cloprame (Metoclopramide) interactions are formally documented in government regulatory sources, falling into categories of contraindicated combinations, altered absorption, and pharmacodynamic synergy, based on its established activities as a prokinetic and dopamine receptor antagonist.

Regulatory Interaction Classifications

Classification Interacting Medicines/Products Practical Constraint
Contraindicated Combinations Dopaminergic Agonists (e.g., Levodopa), MAO Inhibitors Avoid co-administration
Pharmacodynamic Synergy CNS Depressants (including alcohol), Neuroleptics, Serotonergic Drugs Avoid/Monitor for enhanced sedation or increased neurological risk
Absorption Alteration Digoxin, Cyclosporine, Paracetamol, Tetracycline Requires plasma concentration monitoring; exposure is either reduced (Digoxin) or increased (Cyclosporine, Paracetamol)

Metabolic and Population-Specific Notes

Metoclopramide clearance may be reduced by strong CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., Fluoxetine), leading to increased systemic exposure. This altered clearance profile is also relevant in patients with severe renal or moderate-to-severe hepatic impairment, where the systemic concentration of Cloprame is inherently higher, increasing the risk of exposure-related interactions. Anticholinergics and opioids may antagonize Cloprame's prokinetic effects. No mandatory timing separation rules are documented in the official labeling.

Mechanism of Action

Cloprame (Metoclopramide) is a pleiotropic agent targeting multiple neuroreceptor systems centrally and peripherally. Its primary actions include antagonism at dopamine D2 receptors (D2) and serotonin 5-HT3 receptors (5-HT3), alongside agonism at serotonin 5-HT4 receptors (5-HT4).

Central activity occurs in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) of the area postrema, where Cloprame acts as a D2 and 5-HT3 antagonist. This interaction elevates the threshold for afferent visceral input that transmits to the medullary vomiting center.

Peripherally, Cloprame's D2 antagonism in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract reduces the inhibitory effect of dopamine on motility. Concurrently, 5-HT4 receptor agonism on enteric cholinergic neurons enhances the presynaptic release of acetylcholine. Increased acetylcholine then acts on muscarinic receptors to stimulate GI smooth muscle contraction. This downstream cascade results in an accelerated gastric emptying rate, increased intestinal peristalsis, and modulated resting tone of the lower esophageal sphincter.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines for Cloprame

Cloprame, containing Metoclopramide, is utilized through both the oral route (tablets, solution) and the parenteral route (Intravenous or Intramuscular injection). The choice of route is determined by the required speed of action and care setting. Intravenous administration requires specific procedural care, mandating that the dose be administered as a slow bolus over at least three minutes.

Dosing schedules are highly structured and are generally determined by the specific condition. For chronic conditions such as diabetic gastroparesis, the usual adult dose is 10 mg taken up to four times daily. When taken orally for these purposes, the medicine is explicitly instructed to be administered 30 minutes before each meal and at bedtime. For acute indications, such as the prevention of certain types of nausea and vomiting, the standard dose is 10 mg and may be repeated up to three times daily. A minimal interval of 6 hours must be respected between any two administrations of the immediate-release form, even if the prior dose was rejected due to vomiting.

Duration of Use and Adjustments

Use is defined as short-term therapy. Treatment for chronic gastrointestinal disorders must not exceed a maximum duration of 12 weeks, while treatment for acute symptoms is strictly limited to a maximum of 5 days. Dose reductions are required for patients with confirmed renal impairment or severe hepatic dysfunction, and a lower starting dose should be considered for older adults. These official procedural constraints ensure the medicine is used according to a predefined, short-term protocol.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Cloprame

Evidence Overview for Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders

This section summarizes the official research that was studied for managing the symptoms of Diabetic Gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach empties contents slowly. Research in this area primarily involves short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), where patients were observed in defined time intervals, such as a few weeks. These studies monitored patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort. The primary aims of the trials were to understand measurements of symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and persistent fullness, and to monitor physiological measures like the speed of gastric emptying via specialized scans.

Findings describe patterns observed in the studies where patients provided reports on their symptom severity during the trial duration. However, findings were mixed regarding the correlation between the measured changes in gastric emptying speed and the patient's reported perceived discomfort. In other words, physiological changes may not always align with how a person feels. These results apply only to the populations studied, which were adults with diagnosed diabetes and evidence of delayed stomach movement. Follow-up durations were limited, focusing only on the short-term management of symptoms.

Evidence is limited regarding the long-term application of Cloprame for this condition. Research is ongoing into its utility in chronic conditions marked by functional limitations, but the current available data provide limited insight into outcomes beyond the initial initial few months.

Research in Managing Acute Nausea and Vomiting

Research has explored the medicine's application in managing acute episodes of sickness associated with three distinct clinical scenarios.

For the Prevention of Delayed Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV), the evidence comes from controlled trials and meta-analyses. These studies explored whether the medicine, when used in specific regimens, was associated with measurements of reduced vomiting incidence and reduced use of further anti-sickness medication during the delayed phase (the period from 24 hours to five days after chemotherapy). Comparative evidence is lacking regarding its placement against the newest anti-sickness medications, though data show patterns related to its use as a supportive agent in specific protocols.

Regarding Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV), research primarily includes meta-analyses of multiple controlled trials. These studies monitored outcomes describing episodic or acute changes after general anesthesia. Meta-analyses described patterns of measured vomiting incidence across multiple trials when compared to control groups. Findings were mixed regarding its reported effect on the subjective feeling of nausea, particularly at standard doses. The results apply only to the populations studied, which included adults and children undergoing various surgical procedures.

Finally, for Acute Nausea and Vomiting Associated with Migraine, the evidence comes from studies focusing on episodes where symptoms become more noticeable in acute care settings. Research highlights changes measured during the study period in reported nausea and vomiting severity. These studies help show what has been observed so far in patients seeking relief for an acute attack. Follow-up durations were limited to the acute episode, typically 24 to 48 hours.

The Study Landscape: Long-term Outcomes and Durability

The research landscape for Cloprame is predominantly focused on the short-term management of conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes and research exploring short-term symptom changes. The available evidence provides context but not individual predictions regarding long-term outcomes.

There is limited information for long-term outcomes across all uses. For conditions like Diabetic Gastroparesis and GERD, the research base often focuses on short-term periods, and long-term effects are not fully established. The evidence base does not provide insight into the durability of any observed response over many months or years. Studies contribute to the broader evidence landscape by defining short-term findings, but they do not address maintenance or quality-of-life changes over extended periods.

Research in Specific Patient Groups

Studies have evaluated Cloprame in certain special populations, including both children (pediatrics) and the older adult population.

For children, research has been conducted for the management of PONV, where studies explored outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance following surgery. However, in other areas, such as its historical use for reflux in infants, official reviews of the evidence have noted that evidence quality varies across studies, often due to high variability in trial design, dosing, and measurement methods.

In older adults, while this group was evaluated in some general trials, data for this subgroup remain insufficient for specific conclusions. The results apply only to the populations studied, and there is limited information to draw specific conclusions about the magnitude or patterns of short-term changes in this population compared to younger adults.

Limitations and Research Gaps

A key finding from regulatory reviews is that evidence quality varies across studies, particularly older trials, and findings were mixed when assessing the link between physiological changes and a patient's reported symptoms.

A major limitation is that there is limited information for long-term outcomes across all uses. The research base is heavily weighted toward trials assessing short-term or episodic symptom patterns. Sample sizes were modest in some of the pivotal trials, meaning the results apply only to the specific demographic and severity groups studied. Furthermore, comparative evidence is lacking for many new-generation antiemetics, making it challenging to contextualize Cloprame's observed patterns within modern treatment standards. The evidence highlights what is known—and what is still uncertain—about this medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Cloprame (FAQ)


Q: Is Cloprame the same kind of drug as [Similar Drug Name]?

A: Cloprame’s active ingredient is metoclopramide. Official drug labels classify it primarily as a Prokinetic agent, meaning it promotes movement in the digestive tract, and a Dopamine D2 receptor antagonist. This classification describes the specific way it acts on the digestive system and central nervous pathways. If you are comparing it to another medication, understanding its classification can provide context.


Q: Can Cloprame cause weight gain or weight loss?

A: Official drug labels do not commonly list significant weight changes as very common or common side effects. However, the product information does mention the possibility of fluid retention as an adverse reaction. Fluid retention can sometimes cause a noticeable change in body weight.


Q: Is it safe to take Cloprame with alcohol?

A: Regulatory documents state that Cloprame should not be used with alcohol. Alcohol is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, and taking it with Cloprame can lead to a magnified effect, which may result in enhanced sedation or a higher potential for serious neurological issues.


Q: Does Cloprame interact with common herbal supplements like St. John's Wort?

A: Official information states that Cloprame is cleared from the body by the CYP2D6 enzyme. Strong inhibitors of this enzyme may reduce Cloprame clearance, which could lead to increased amounts of the drug in the body and a higher potential for adverse effects. You should discuss all supplements with your prescribing doctor.


Q: What should I do if the side effects of Cloprame are bothering me?

A: Official regulatory information emphasizes the importance of contacting a healthcare provider if you experience bothersome, severe, or persistent side effects. A healthcare provider is best equipped to evaluate the symptoms and determine the appropriate steps.


Q: Can I take other prescription medications while using Cloprame?

A: Cloprame has known interactions with certain drug classes, including dopaminergic agonists, CNS depressants, and some serotonergic drugs. Due to the risk of potentially serious interactions, it is important for the prescribing physician to be aware of all prescription and non-prescription medications being taken.


Q: What are the long-term effects of taking Cloprame?

A: The official label carries a Boxed Warning that the risk of developing Tardive Dyskinesia (TD)—a serious, sometimes irreversible movement disorder—increases with the duration of treatment. This is why the use of Cloprame is strictly limited to short-term therapy, typically no longer than 12 weeks.


Q: Are there different strengths or formulations of Cloprame available?

A: Yes, regulatory records show that Cloprame is manufactured in several physical forms. These include standard tablets, an oral solution, and a sterile injectable solution for intravenous or intramuscular administration.


Q: Is Cloprame habit-forming or addictive?

A: Official drug labeling does not classify Cloprame as a controlled substance. Information regarding drug abuse and dependence is not typically present in the formal regulatory documents for this medication.


Q: What happens if I forget to take a dose of Cloprame?

A: The official procedural guidance for a missed dose is to skip the missed dose and then resume the normal dosing schedule with the next planned dose. It is advised not to take a double dose to compensate for a dose that was missed.


Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks to avoid while on Cloprame?

A: The only substance with a specific and significant warning in regulatory documents is alcohol. No other specific foods or non-alcoholic drinks are typically listed as required to avoid while taking Cloprame.


Q: Is Cloprame safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

A: Official information recommends avoidance during the late stages of pregnancy due to the potential risk of neurological symptoms (extrapyramidal syndrome) in the newborn. Furthermore, use is generally not recommended while breastfeeding because the drug is known to pass into breast milk.


Q: Is it normal to feel a little worse when first starting Cloprame?

A: Official warnings highlight that the risk of developing neurological symptoms, such as Extrapyramidal disorders (EPS), is highest at the beginning of treatment, sometimes even after the first dose. Any new or worsening neurological symptoms should be reported to the prescribing doctor.


Q: Does Cloprame have any black box warnings?

A: Yes, the FDA requires a Boxed Warning (often called a Black Box Warning) for Cloprame. This is a critical safety notification regarding the risk of a severe, sometimes irreversible movement disorder called Tardive Dyskinesia (TD), especially with use beyond 12 weeks.


Q: Are there specific lab tests required before starting Cloprame?

A: The official label requires a dose reduction for patients with severe renal (kidney) or hepatic (liver) impairment. Patients with impaired kidney or liver function may require testing to determine appropriate dose adjustments, as drug accumulation can occur in these groups.


Q: Does Cloprame affect mood or cause anxiety?

A: Official documents list Depression as a common side effect and Confusion as an uncommon to rare side effect. Changes in mood or feelings of anxiety are possible adverse reactions that should be reported to a healthcare professional.


Q: Is it common to feel stomach upset on Cloprame?

A: While Cloprame is used to relieve nausea, its side effect profile includes gastrointestinal disturbance. Diarrhoea is listed as a common gastrointestinal side effect in official documents.


Q: Can I take Cloprame if I have a history of liver problems?

A: Patients with moderate-to-severe hepatic (liver) impairment are required to have their dose reduced, often by 50% or more, to prevent the drug from accumulating in the body. This is an official requirement, not a personal recommendation.


Q: Is Cloprame safe for people with kidney disease?

A: Cloprame use is subject to restrictions in this group. Patients with severe renal (kidney) impairment are officially required to receive a reduced dose to prevent drug accumulation and minimize the risk of serious side effects.


Q: Why do some people need to take Cloprame for a long time?

A: Regulatory information advises that Cloprame is for short-term use only. Long-term use is restricted because of the increased risk of Tardive Dyskinesia (TD), and is reserved for situations where a physician has determined the short-term benefits outweigh the serious neurological risks.

How should Cloprame be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Cloprame (Metoclopramide)

Official regulatory information requires specific handling to maintain the product's integrity and safety.

Storage and Handling Requirements

Requirement Official Instruction
Temperature Store at Controlled Room Temperature, 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F).
Protection Keep the medicine in a tightly closed container and protect from light and excessive moisture.
Child Safety Keep Cloprame and all medicines out of the reach of children.
Stability Discard unused portions of single-dose vials immediately, as they contain no preservative.

Disposal Protocol

To dispose of unused or expired Cloprame, do not flush the medicine down the toilet or pour it down a drain. The preferred method is using a drug take-back program. If no program is available, mix the product with an undesirable substance (such as dirt or cat litter) and place the mixture in a sealed container before discarding it in the trash, in accordance with local environmental regulations.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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