Drug interactions
Bromocriptine + Metoclopramide
Severity: Major
Bromocriptine and Metoclopramide: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Metoclopramide blocks dopamine receptors and raises prolactin, directly opposing bromocriptine's dopamine agonist effects. This can worsen parkinsonian symptoms or reduce prolactin-lowering efficacy.
What this interaction means in plain words
Bromocriptine and Metoclopramide can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Bromocriptine belongs to Central Nervous System; Metoclopramide belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract.
Why it happens
Pharmacodynamic antagonism between D2 receptor blockade by metoclopramide and D2 agonism by bromocriptine.
What to do
Avoid the combination and use a non-dopamine-blocking antiemetic such as ondansetron. Monitor motor symptoms or prolactin if exposure cannot be avoided.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
Other interactions of Metoclopramide
Other interactions of Bromocriptine
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Bromocriptine with Metoclopramide?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Bromocriptine and Metoclopramide can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Metoclopramide blocks dopamine receptors and raises prolactin, directly opposing bromocriptine's dopamine agonist effects. This can worsen parkinsonian symptoms or reduce prolactin-lowering efficacy.
How serious is the interaction between Bromocriptine and Metoclopramide?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination and use a non-dopamine-blocking antiemetic such as ondansetron. Monitor motor symptoms or prolactin if exposure cannot be avoided.
What other medicines interact with Metoclopramide?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Metoclopramide with, for example, Amantadine, Amoxapine, Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol). The full list is on the Metoclopramide page.
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