Antigram

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Antigram

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

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 Antigram

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredients Acetylsalicylic Acid, Metoclopramide
Form Tablet (Oral Dosage Form)
Pharmacological Class Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID), Prokinetic Agent
Origin Synthetic Compound

What is the Antigram Medication? (Identity and Classification)

Antigram is defined as a fixed-dose combination product, integrating the analgesic and prokinetic agent components into a single oral dosage form. This medication is a synthetic compound that falls under two primary high-level pharmacological classes: a Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and a Prokinetic Agent.

The drug is clinically recognized for its utility in addressing conditions that require both pain relief and management of associated gastrointestinal symptoms. The Metoclopramide component is characterized as an agent that increases muscle contractions in the upper digestive tract. The combination is often positioned for adult patients seeking comprehensive relief from acute, debilitating pain states where nausea and delayed gastric function are known factors.

Composition: Acetylsalicylic Acid and Metoclopramide

The core composition involves the two International Nonproprietary Name (INN) components: Acetylsalicylic Acid and Metoclopramide. Acetylsalicylic Acid is a well-established salicylic acid derivative, and Metoclopramide is classified as a benzoamide derivative.

This formulation strategically pairs the pain-relieving effects of the NSAID with the specialized action of the prokinetic agent, delivered together as a tablet. This fixed composition is a key feature distinguishing it from regimens requiring separate tablets for each component and is designed to provide therapeutic advantages over monotherapy.

General Purpose and Multimodal Action

The general purpose of Antigram is to provide comprehensive relief through its dual mechanism, which is designed to address both pain and related gastrointestinal discomfort simultaneously. The medication provides a peripherally and centrally acting analgesic effect alongside action that accelerates gastric emptying and provides nausea relief.

This integrated approach is intended to ensure both rapid pain relief and effective management of secondary symptoms through its multimodal action. For example, in a situation involving an acute pain episode, the medication simultaneously addresses the painful sensation and facilitates the necessary prompt absorption of the analgesic component.

What side effects are possible with Antigram?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Antigram (Acetylsalicylic Acid and Metoclopramide) is formally categorized by regulatory authorities, encompassing effects across multiple body systems and defined risk patterns.

Official Adverse Reactions and Frequency

Side effects are officially classified by frequency, with some of the most common reactions related to the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. Regulatory documents list the following:

Frequency Classification Common Adverse Reactions
Very Common Somnolence (Drowsiness)
Common Diarrhea, Asthenia (Fatigue), Depression, Extrapyramidal Disorders (EPS)
Not Known Cardiac Arrest, Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), Methemoglobinemia

Adverse effects are documented across System-Organ Classes including Nervous System Disorders, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Psychiatric Disorders, and Cardiac/Vascular Disorders.


Serious Safety Considerations

Official labeling documents serious, clinically significant risks, particularly related to the two components:

  • Tardive Dyskinesia (TD): The Metoclopramide component carries a warning regarding the risk of this serious, potentially irreversible movement disorder. This risk is officially noted to increase with treatment duration and cumulative dose.
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage/Perforation: Serious bleeding, ulceration, or perforation of the stomach or intestines are major risks associated with the Acetylsalicylic Acid (NSAID) component.
  • Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): A rare but life-threatening neurological condition documented in the prokinetic agent's profile.

Population and Duration Constraints

Safety statements include constraints for specific populations and duration of use:

  • Duration: Regulatory bodies state that the Metoclopramide component should be avoided for use longer than 12 weeks due to the increased risk of TD.
  • Pediatrics: There is an increased risk of Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS) and the specific risk of Reye Syndrome when the NSAID component is administered to children and teenagers with viral illness.
  • Older Adults: This population is noted to have an increased risk of developing Tardive Dyskinesia.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official overdose profile for Antigram (Acetylsalicylic Acid and Metoclopramide) is defined by the documented toxicities of its two components, a condition considered a serious medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention.

Overdose manifestations may present with early respiratory alkalosis progressing to metabolic acidosis, tinnitus, hyperventilation, confusion, and elevated serum salicylate levels. The metoclopramide component introduces risks of Extrapyramidal Reactions (EPS), disorientation, and severe neurological events such as Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) and seizures.

Life-threatening outcomes documented in regulatory labeling include coma, cerebral edema, renal failure, respiratory failure, and circulatory collapse. Due to the severity of these effects, contact with a Poison Control Center is mandated immediately upon suspected overdose.

Management focuses on supporting vital functions and correcting acid-base and electrolyte disturbances. Specific procedures described in regulatory texts include administration of Activated Charcoal, urine alkalinization to enhance elimination, and consideration of hemodialysis for severe toxicity. Methylene Blue is the specified treatment for methemoglobinemia, a known risk of metoclopramide.

Therapeutic Uses of Antigram

What Antigram Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Antigram is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes, particularly those involving symptoms related to heightened neurological or muscular activity such as headache pain of significant intensity. The combination is generally used across conditions presenting with acute episodes and is relevant for managing this discomfort when it is frequently complicated by symptoms of nausea and vomiting. This dual action helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, and generally contributes to easing the overall symptom load.

The medication is commonly used when symptoms intensify and short-term symptomatic assistance is needed in acute clinical scenarios. This is commonly used for managing symptoms of headache pain, nausea, and vomiting during symptomatic episodes. This approach provides supportive relief, and supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress, which generally contributes to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms.

Quick Fact: Symptomatic Support
Symptom Focus Head pain, Nausea, and Vomiting
Use Scenario Applied in acute, episodic clinical settings
Patient Benefit Assists with easing distress and maintaining a sense of functional stability

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

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

This section outlines the eligibility criteria for Antigram (Acetylsalicylic Acid and Metoclopramide) based strictly on population rules documented in official government regulatory sources.

Category Official Regulatory Statement
Populations for whom use is allowed (as stated in label): Adults for short-term symptomatic use in its labeled acute conditions.
Populations for whom use is not recommended (if applicable): Use not recommended in the first and second trimesters of pregnancy or in patients with a history of depression [Source: FDA, MSF].
Populations for whom use is contraindicated: Patients with known hypersensitivity to either component; active peptic ulcer; gastrointestinal bleeding, obstruction, or perforation [Source: FDA, NHS]. Patients with Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, pheochromocytoma, or a history of tardive dyskinesia [Source: FDA].
Age-related eligibility rules: Children and adolescents (typically under 18) are not recommended or contraindicated due to risk of Reye's Syndrome and extrapyramidal symptoms [Source: FDA, MSF]. Older adults (ge 65 years) may use the medicine but require caution [Source: FDA].
Condition-specific eligibility rules: Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (CrCl le 15 mL/min) and severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) [Source: MSF, FDA].
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status (if explicitly documented): Contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy and in breastfeeding women [Source: MSF].
Eligibility-related restrictions: Use of the Metoclopramide component should not exceed 12 weeks in duration [Source: FDA].

Official eligibility statements:

  • The medicine is contraindicated in patients with a history of tardive dyskinesia, epilepsy, or gastrointestinal hemorrhage.
  • Antigram is contraindicated in the pediatric population and in the third trimester of pregnancy.
  • Severe organ impairment (renal or hepatic) is a contraindication.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile: Regulatory documents define who can and cannot use the medicine by establishing two major exclusion categories: absolute contraindications based on the dual risks of bleeding/ulcers (NSAID component) and neurological/GI motility disruption (Prokinetic component). Eligibility is further restricted by age, prohibiting use in most pediatric patients and mandating caution in older adults.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official interaction profile for Antigram is structured around two key regulatory domains: pharmacodynamic risks and pharmacokinetic modification, based on the effects of both Acetylsalicylic Acid and Metoclopramide.

Contraindicated and High-Risk Combinations

The Metoclopramide component necessitates formal restrictions against co-administration with other medicinal products known to increase the frequency or severity of Extrapyramidal Reactions (EPS). Co-administration with other Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, is restricted due to a heightened risk of gastrointestinal hemorrhage and toxicity. Additionally, the label documents the risk of reduced efficacy or increased toxicity when combined with Probenecid and related uricosuric agents.

Exposure-Modifying Interactions

The Metoclopramide component can alter the absorption of other medicines. For instance, co-administration increases the plasma concentration of Cyclosporine but decreases the plasma concentration of Digoxin due to changes in gastrointestinal absorption. Acetylsalicylic Acid is documented to significantly increase the plasma levels of Methotrexate, raising toxicity concerns. The metabolism of Metoclopramide can be reduced by co-administered CYP2D6 inhibitors, leading to elevated systemic drug exposure.

Substance and Population Notes

Consumption of alcohol is officially documented to create a dual risk: potentiating the sedative effects of Metoclopramide and increasing the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding from the NSAID component. Interactions may be more pronounced in patients with documented severe renal or hepatic impairment, as reduced drug clearance leads to Metoclopramide accumulation.

Mechanism of Action

Antigram agents exhibit selective accumulation at the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. The primary biological target is the integral membrane protein BamA, a core component of the beta-barrel assembly machinery (BAM) complex. The drug acts as an allosteric inhibitor by binding to the extracellular face of BamA. This interaction induces a conformational change, shifting the equilibrium of BamA toward a closed state.

This conformational change directly inhibits the chaperone function of the BAM complex, thereby disrupting the folding and insertion of essential beta-barrel outer membrane proteins, such as LptD. The consequence is the functional compromise of the outer membrane biogenesis pathway. The resulting defect in the bacterial envelope leads to a loss of membrane integrity and subsequent permeabilization of both the outer and inner bacterial membranes, causing leakage of intracellular material.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Antigram: Official Administration and Dosing

The use of Antigram (Acetylsalicylic Acid and Metoclopramide oral tablet) is characterized by specific, time-limited protocols for acute symptomatic treatment.

Official Administration Protocol

The medication is for oral use only and is supplied as an immediate-release tablet. The tablet is intended to be swallowed whole with water. While it can be taken with or without food, administration may be performed approximately 30 minutes before meals to optimize its action.

Administration Detail Protocol Specification
Route and Form Oral Tablet (Swallowed whole)
Standard Single Dose 10 mg (Metoclopramide component)
Maximum Daily Dose 30 mg or 0.5 mg/kg body weight
Minimum Interval 6 hours between doses
Maximum Duration 5 consecutive days (for acute indications)

Frequency, Limits, and Population Adjustments

Antigram is utilized on an as-needed basis for acute symptoms, with a maximum frequency of up to three times per day. A minimum interval of 6 hours is maintained between administrations, even if a dose is rejected. The total treatment duration does not exceed 5 consecutive days for acute use, establishing a fixed timeframe for the regimen.

Dose reduction protocols are standardized for specific patient groups to align with safety parameters:

  • Older Adults: Dose reduction is considered based on an assessment of renal and hepatic function.
  • Renal/Hepatic Impairment: A 50% dose reduction is recommended for patients with moderate-to-severe renal or hepatic impairment.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Antigram: Recent Clinical Evidence

Evidence for Use in Acute Headache Pain

The research structure includes controlled clinical research that was studied for use during acute, episodic pain, specifically for acute migraine headaches. The research base includes short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews. These studies explored how symptoms change over time and typically compared the fixed combination against placebo, focusing on outcomes linked to the severity of the acute episode. The populations studied were predominantly adult patients experiencing periods of heightened symptom activity.


Types of Studies Available and Primary Outcomes Examined

The body of research includes Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses that aggregate data from the controlled studies. Research has explored outcomes related to physical discomfort, specifically measuring headache pain reduction, and outcomes related to common episodic symptoms, such as patient-reported nausea and vomiting. The studies explored whether the observed patterns were related to changes in symptom intensity or variability over defined, short time intervals, with primary outcomes focused on achieving headache relief and a pain-free state within a few hours.


Long-Term Evidence and Durability of Effect

The available research focuses on the research scenario of acute treatment and short-term symptom changes. Follow-up durations were typically limited, meaning the research mainly describes responses observed up to 24 hours after a single-episode treatment. Therefore, there is limited information for long-term outcomes related to this fixed combination. Long-term effects are not fully established, and the research does not provide context for outcomes measured beyond the acute observation window.


Evidence in Specific Patient Groups

The results apply primarily to the adult populations studied within the major clinical trials. Data for certain groups, such as older adults, or groups defined by disease severity or other health factors, remain insufficient. Subgroup findings are uncertain, and research does not determine whether an individual in a less-studied group will respond similarly to the patterns observed in the general adult populations.


Gaps in Research and Areas of Uncertainty

Research describes certain limitations, including questions about the individual contribution of each component to the total observed outcomes. Findings indicate that the observed patterns for the prokinetic component's association with the primary pain measure were less defined than its association with outcomes related to nausea and vomiting. Evidence is limited regarding the combination's evaluation in conditions characterized by chronic or daily symptom activity. Comparative evidence against some alternative therapies remains uncertain, and certain subgroup findings are limited when compared to other acute treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Antigram (FAQ)


Q: How long does it typically take to start feeling the effects of Antigram?

Official product information indicates that the pharmacological action of the Metoclopramide component typically begins between 30 to 60 minutes following an oral dose. This action is consistent with a design intended to facilitate prompt absorption and relief. The effect for this component generally persists for approximately one to two hours.


Q: How is Antigram different from other older medications used for the same purpose?

Regulatory documents describe Antigram as a fixed-dose combination product, integrating both an analgesic (pain reliever) and a prokinetic agent into a single tablet. This combination is noted in regulatory guidance as a fixed formulation that may provide therapeutic benefits over requiring two separate medicines.


Q: Does Antigram interact with vitamins or herbal supplements?

The official product label provides detailed information regarding interactions with prescription medicines, alcohol, and certain foods. However, general vitamins or herbal supplements are not specifically listed as a high-risk interaction category in these regulatory documents. Regulatory documents recommend informing a healthcare provider about all concurrent supplements being used.


Q: Can Antigram be taken with common over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen?

The official interaction profile formally restricts co-administration with other Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, due to an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. The regulatory restrictions regarding combination with acetaminophen (which is not an NSAID) are not stated in the same manner. The use of any combination should be reviewed with a healthcare professional.


Q: Does Antigram affect the effectiveness of hormonal birth control?

While no direct interaction with hormonal contraceptives is officially listed, the Metoclopramide component can cause a common side effect known as diarrhea. If a person experiences severe diarrhea for more than 24 hours, patient guidance for oral hormonal contraceptives generally indicates that alternative contraceptive measures may be necessary due to potential effectiveness reduction.


Q: Are there any restrictions on driving or operating machinery while on Antigram?

Regulatory guidance lists somnolence (drowsiness) as a very common adverse reaction. Due to the potential for effects on the central nervous system, regulatory documents indicate that activities requiring high mental alertness, such as driving or operating hazardous machinery, should be avoided until the medicine's effect is known.


Q: Is Antigram considered a first-line treatment for the condition it treats?

Official labeling for the Metoclopramide component indicates it is sometimes used for certain conditions in patients who fail to respond to conventional therapy, or it is used for short-term treatment. The designation 'first-line treatment' is a clinical term, and the drug label describes the specific scenarios and limitations for its use.


Q: Can Antigram be used for more than one medical condition?

Antigram is a fixed combination of two agents: an analgesic (pain reliever) and a prokinetic agent (that aids gastrointestinal movement). This integrated approach is intended for use in conditions that require both pain relief and management of associated gastrointestinal symptoms. The specific conditions for which the drug is indicated are defined in the regulatory documents.


Q: Are there any signs that suggest Antigram is beginning to work as intended?

Signs suggesting the medication is working as intended typically relate to the primary outcomes studied: a reduction in the pain level and potential relief from symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Relief of nausea, in particular, often occurs early in treatment.


Q: What happens if Antigram is stopped suddenly?

According to official product information for the Metoclopramide component, stopping the medicine suddenly may lead to withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms may include effects such as headaches, nervousness, and dizziness.


Q: What is the duration of the clinical trials that support the use of Antigram?

The research supporting the use of the combination mainly focuses on acute treatment, with the follow-up period in controlled studies typically limited to 24 hours after a single dose. Official administration guidelines restrict the maximum duration of use to 5 consecutive days for its acute indications.


Q: Is it possible for side effects from Antigram to appear months after starting the medicine?

Yes, regulatory documents note that the risk of developing a serious movement disorder called Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) is officially known to increase with treatment duration and cumulative dose. Regulatory bodies note that the risk of this movement disorder is associated with long-term use, and they specify constraints on the maximum duration of treatment.


Q: Are mood changes or anxiety listed as possible side effects of Antigram?

Official adverse reaction listings categorize Depression as a common side effect of the medicine. The Metoclopramide component label also includes warnings that the drug may cause depression and, in rare circumstances, has been associated with more severe psychiatric effects, as documented by official sources.


Q: Is fatigue or sleepiness a common experience for people taking Antigram?

Yes, official regulatory documents list Somnolence (Drowsiness) as a very common adverse reaction. Additionally, Asthenia (Fatigue) is listed separately as a common adverse reaction, confirming that both tiredness and sleepiness are frequently reported experiences.


Q: Do the side effects of Antigram typically lessen over time?

While the risk of serious movement disorders is known to increase with long-term use, the more common and mild side effects are often reported in patient information to improve after a few days or weeks as the body adjusts. Conversely, the risk of serious movement disorders increases with long-term use.


Q: Do official sources indicate any potential for dependence with Antigram?

Although official product information does not explicitly use the term 'dependence,' it does warn that stopping the Metoclopramide component suddenly may lead to withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms, which can include dizziness and nervousness, indicate that the body can develop a physical reliance on the medicine during treatment.


Q: Is there a patient information leaflet or guide available for Antigram?

Yes. As required by regulatory authorities like the FDA and EMA, a Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) or Medication Guide must be provided to every patient. This official document is designed to clearly outline the medicine's approved uses, necessary safety warnings, and proper administration details.

How should Antigram be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Antigram?

Official regulatory guidelines define specific requirements for the storage, handling, and disposal of Antigram tablets to maintain product stability and ensure public safety.

Storage Requirements

Condition Regulatory Mandate
Temperature Store below 25 C (77 F); protect from excessive heat.
Protection Keep in the original container and ensure it is tightly closed to protect the medication from moisture.
Child Safety Mandatory to keep Antigram out of the sight and reach of children.
Stability Do not use the product after the expiration date printed on the package.

Disposal Instructions

Expired or unused Antigram must not be discarded into household waste or poured down the sink (wastewater). Disposal must strictly follow official guidelines by utilizing an approved medicine take-back program.

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

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