Is Metoclopramide Safe in Pregnancy

Status

caution Last reviewed: 2026-05-16 · Confidence: moderate

Reason

Official sources do not show increased birth-defect risk, but late-pregnancy/neonatal effects are possible; use only if needed.

Drug Information

Brand Name
Reglan
Generic Name
metoclopramide
Drug Class
dopamine receptor antagonist; antiemetic; prokinetic
FDA Category
B
Rx Status
prescription

Safe Amount

Dosage must be determined by your provider based on individual risk/benefit. Official labeling warns against use longer than 12 weeks except rare cases.

Effects

Pregnancy
Not expected to increase birth-defect risk above background. Official labels note no increased risk in published pregnancy studies.
Mother
May cause movement side effects, including extrapyramidal symptoms and tardive dyskinesia, especially with longer use.
Baby
Crosses the placenta. Use during delivery may cause extrapyramidal signs and methemoglobinemia in the newborn.

Trimester Notes

1st Trimester
No increased birth-defect risk was reported in official pregnancy summaries, but data are still limited.
2nd Trimester
Generally used when needed; use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time under provider guidance.
3rd Trimester
Use caution near delivery. Newborn may need monitoring for extrapyramidal signs and methemoglobinemia.

Risk-Benefit Note

For pregnancy nausea and vomiting, metoclopramide may be used when symptoms are hard to control and the benefit outweighs the risk. Do not stop or continue it without your prescriber’s advice.

Conditions & Warnings

  • Consult OB/GYN or prescriber
  • Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy
  • Hyperemesis gravidarum
  • Use only if benefits outweigh risks

Alternatives

  • Doxylamine-pyridoxine
  • Provider-recommended non-drug measures for nausea
  • Other anti-sickness medicines with fewer side effects, if your clinician recommends them

References

Black Box Warning: Tardive dyskinesia risk with prolonged use; avoid treatment longer than 12 weeks except rare cases.
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