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Critical Care
Published in: Critical Care 5/2014

Open Access 01-10-2014 | Viewpoint

Should we stop prescribing metoclopramide as a prokinetic drug in critically ill patients?

Authors: Y Gert van der Meer, Willem A Venhuizen, Daren K Heyland, Arthur RH van Zanten

Published in: Critical Care | Issue 5/2014

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Abstract

Regulatory agencies in North America and Europe recently re-evaluated the safety of metoclopramide. This re-evaluation resulted in recommendations and restrictions in order to minimise the risk of neurological and other adverse reactions associated with the use of metoclopramide. In the ICU, off-label prescription of metoclopramide is common. We have reviewed the evidence for safety, effectiveness and dosing of metoclopramide in critically ill patients. Furthermore, tachyphylaxis is addressed and alternatives are summarised. Finally, recommendations are presented not to abandon use of metoclopramide in ICU patients, because metoclopramide is considered effective in enhancing gastric emptying and facilitating early enteral nutrition.
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Metadata
Title
Should we stop prescribing metoclopramide as a prokinetic drug in critically ill patients?
Authors
Y Gert van der Meer
Willem A Venhuizen
Daren K Heyland
Arthur RH van Zanten
Publication date
01-10-2014
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Critical Care / Issue 5/2014
Electronic ISSN: 1364-8535
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13054-014-0502-4

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