Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Rating L-DOPA-Induced Dyskinesias in the Unilaterally 6-OHDA-Lesioned Rat Model of Parkinson's Disease
Published on: October 4, 2021
Metoclopramide and extrapyramidal symptoms: a case report.
Daniel D Moos1, Debra J Hansen
1Kearney Anesthesia Associates, PC, Kearney, Nebraska, USA. moosd@charter.net
Metoclopramide can cause distressing movement disorders like akathisia, even after a single dose. Perianesthesia nurses must recognize and manage these extrapyramidal symptoms for patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Pharmacology
- Neurology
Background:
- Metoclopramide is utilized by anesthesia providers for preoperative gastric reduction and enhanced lower esophageal sphincter tone.
- This medication is crucial for pharmacologic pulmonary aspiration prophylaxis.
Observation:
- Metoclopramide can induce extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), also known as drug-induced movement disorders (DIMD).
- While tardive dyskinesia and Parkinsonism typically arise from long-term use, acute dystonia and akathisia can manifest after a single dose.
- This case report details a male patient in his 40s who developed akathisia following a single 10-mg dose of metoclopramide.
Findings:
- Acute dystonia and akathisia are potential adverse reactions to metoclopramide, even with short-term administration.
- Prompt recognition and treatment of these EPS by perianesthesia nurses are vital for patient well-being.
Implications:
- Perianesthesia nurses require comprehensive knowledge of metoclopramide's pharmacology, anesthetic applications, and associated EPS/DIMD.
- Understanding management strategies can mitigate the incidence and facilitate treatment of metoclopramide-induced movement disorders.
Related Concept Videos
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Dopamine Receptor Antagonists
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Dopamine Receptor Antagonists
Phenothiazines, such as prochlorperazine...
Parkinson's Disease: Treatment
Parkinson's Disease is primarily a result of the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. The cornerstone of its...
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Serotonin Receptor Agonists
Antipsychotic Drugs: Therapeutic Uses and Side Effects
Despite these side effects, antipsychotics are used therapeutically for various purposes, including managing schizophrenia, preventing nausea and vomiting, curbing...
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists

