Drug interactions
Metoclopramide + Thioridazine
Severity: Major
Metoclopramide and Thioridazine: 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
Thioridazine blocks dopamine D2 receptors, adding to metoclopramide's risk of extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Thioridazine also strongly inhibits CYP2D6, which can raise metoclopramide exposure, and it carries a marked QT-prolonging effect.
What this interaction means in plain words
Metoclopramide and Thioridazine 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; Thioridazine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive D2 antagonism plus CYP2D6 inhibition by thioridazine that reduces metoclopramide clearance.
What to do
Avoid the combination and select an antiemetic without dopamine blockade. If it cannot be avoided, reduce the metoclopramide dose and monitor for movement disorders and the ECG.
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 Thioridazine
- Abiraterone + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Adagrasib + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Amisulpride + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Thioridazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Metoclopramide with Thioridazine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Metoclopramide and Thioridazine 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. Thioridazine blocks dopamine D2 receptors, adding to metoclopramide's risk of extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Thioridazine also strongly inhibits CYP2D6, which can raise metoclopramide exposure, and it carries a marked QT-prolonging effect.
How serious is the interaction between Metoclopramide and Thioridazine?
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 select an antiemetic without dopamine blockade. If it cannot be avoided, reduce the metoclopramide dose and monitor for movement disorders and the ECG.
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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