Drug interactions
Metoclopramide + Quinidine
Severity: Major
Metoclopramide and Quinidine: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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
Quinidine is a potent CYP2D6 inhibitor and can markedly raise metoclopramide exposure, increasing the risk of extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, restlessness and sedation. Fixed-dose products such as intranasal metoclopramide cannot be titrated to compensate.
What this interaction means in plain words
Metoclopramide and Quinidine 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 belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract; Quinidine belongs to Anti Parasitic.
Why it happens
Inhibition of CYP2D6-mediated metabolism of metoclopramide by quinidine.
What to do
Avoid fixed-dose metoclopramide formulations with quinidine. If metoclopramide is needed, use an oral form with a reduced dose and monitor for extrapyramidal effects.
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 Quinidine
- Adagrasib + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Arsenic trioxide + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Artemether / lumefantrine + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Dofetilide + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Quinidine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Metoclopramide with Quinidine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Metoclopramide and Quinidine 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. Quinidine is a potent CYP2D6 inhibitor and can markedly raise metoclopramide exposure, increasing the risk of extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, restlessness and sedation. Fixed-dose products such as intranasal metoclopramide cannot be titrated to compensate.
How serious is the interaction between Metoclopramide and Quinidine?
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 fixed-dose metoclopramide formulations with quinidine. If metoclopramide is needed, use an oral form with a reduced dose and monitor for extrapyramidal effects.
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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