Why Does Metoclopramide Cause Extrapyramidal Symptoms?

However, the antagonistic action of metoclopramide at the dopamine receptors in the basal ganglia is associated with extrapyramidal side effects, including acute dystonia, tardive dyskinesia, akathisia, and drug-induced parkinsonism [12].

Can metoclopramide cause extrapyramidal symptoms?

Metoclopramide can precipitate extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS)/drug-induced movement disorders (DIMD). Tardive dyskinesia and Parkinsonism is generally seen after long-term use, whereas dystonia and akathisia can occur after a single dose of metoclopramide.

Why do some patients experience extrapyramidal reactions with metoclopramide?

Tardive dys- kinesia and Parkinsonism are generally seen after long-term use, whereas dystonia and akathisia can occur after a sin- gle dose of metoclopramide [10]. Although the possible reason of extrapyramidal side effects presentation is a blockage of striatal D2 receptor, their exact mechanism remains unclear [9].