Promotility Drugs

Metoclopramide (Clopra, Maxolon, Reglan) may be used if reflux is a result of a condition that delays stomach emptying (for example, diabetes).

• How promotility drugs work: Promotility drugs treat reflux by increasing lower esophageal sphincter (LES) tone and enhancing emptying of food from the stomach.
  
  
• Who should not use these medications: People with the following conditions should not use promotility drugs:
  
  
  • Allergy to metoclopramide
    
    
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding or obstruction
    
    
  • Pheochromocytoma or seizure disorders
    
    
• Use: Take these drugs 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime.
  
  
• Drug or food interactions: Promotility drugs should not be used with drugs that cause extrapyramidal symptoms, such as muscle stiffness, tremor, or twitching, and uncontrolled movements of the face, tongue, eyes, neck or head. Examples of drugs that may cause extrapyramidal symptoms include bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban) and phenothiazines (chlorpromazine [Thorazine], fluphenazine [Prolixin], haloperidol [Haldol], olanzapine [Zyprexa], thioridazine [Mellaril]). Do not use promotility drugs within 14 days of taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (Marplan, Nardil, Parnate), tricyclic antidepressants (Elavil), or stimulants such as diet pills or decongestants (Sudafed).
  
  
• Side effects: Common effects include drowsiness, and constipation. Promotility drugs may cause irregular heartbeat. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the previously described extrapyramidal symptoms.