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Metoclopramide duration restriction — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateAdverse Drug ReactionsMetoclopramide duration restrictionGPhC CRA

A 38-year-old woman presents with a prescription for metoclopramide 10 mg three times daily for nausea and vomiting. The prescription is for 30 days' supply. What concern should the pharmacist raise?

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Correct answer: A — The maximum recommended duration for metoclopramide is five days due to the risk of neurological adverse effects

The MHRA restricts metoclopramide use to a maximum of five days in adults due to the risk of neurological adverse effects, including extrapyramidal reactions and tardive dyskinesia. A 30-day supply far exceeds this recommendation. The prescriber should be contacted to discuss limiting the supply duration to five days and reviewing the indication if longer antiemetic therapy is needed. The dose of 10 mg three times daily is within the licensed range.

Reference: BNF; MHRA Drug Safety Update