This medication is made by Catalent UK Swindon Zydis Limited for Salix Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
The active ingredient in Metozolv ODT is
metoclopramide, a medication that has several actions in the digestive tract. It causes the esophageal sphincter (which closes the opening from the stomach up to the esophagus) to become more tight while causing the pyloric sphincter (which closes the opening from the stomach out to the intestines) to relax. The drug also increases the muscular
contractions of the stomach and small intestines.
All of these actions work together to help food move through the stomach more quickly, which is why Metozolv ODT is effective for
diabetic gastroparesis treatment. The medication has little or no activity in the
colon.
Metozolv ODT helps with GERD by preventing the stomach contents from refluxing back up the esophagus, since it increases the tightness of the esophageal sphincter.
The drug works to relieve nausea and vomiting by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, although this is an "off-label" (rather than an approved) use. Dopamine can activate the part of the brain that controls nausea and vomiting, and blocking the receptors helps to alleviate these problems.
When and How to Take Metozolv ODT
Some general considerations to keep in mind when taking Metozolv ODT include the following:
- This medication comes in the form of orally disintegrating tablets. The tablets are taken by mouth. Place the tablet on the tongue, let it dissolve, and then swallow. You do not need water to take the tablets.
- On average, it takes about one minute for the tablet to dissolve on the tongue.
- Metozolv ODT is usually taken four times a day, at least 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime. In some situations, less frequent dosing may be appropriate.
- Do not take Metozolv ODT with food or during a meal, since this can decrease the effectiveness of the medication.
- This drug is not approved to be used longer than 12 weeks at a time. Taking it longer than this increases the risk of serious side effects.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed.
The dose of Metozolv ODT your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The medical condition being treated
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be currently taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects of Metozolv ODT
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Metozolv ODT. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious reactions are less common.
Some of the possible side effects of Metozolv ODT include but are not limited to:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Headache.
(Click Metozolv ODT Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
Prior to taking this medication, talk to your healthcare provider if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medications you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose of Metozolv ODT?
People who take too much of this medicine may experience effects such as (but not limited to):
- Drowsiness
- Disorientation
- Unusual, uncontrollable muscle movements or contractions
- Seizures
- Lethargy.
If you happen to overdose on Metozolv ODT, seek immediate medical attention.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Metozolv ODT as scheduled, it is usually best to simply skip the missed dose, since this medication should be taken at specific times (at least 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime). Do not take a double dose.
Metozolv ODT tablets are available in the following strengths:
- Metozolv ODT 5 mg
- Metozolv ODT 10 mg.
How Should This Medication Be Stored?
Metozolv ODT should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the tablets in their original blister packs until just before use, as the tablets rapidly absorb moisture. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
Generic Availability of Metozolv ODT
Currently, this medication is not available in generic form
(see Generic Metozolv ODT for more information).
