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Metoclopramide-induced sulfhemoglobinemia
1Department of Medicine, Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri, USA.
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Metoclopramide can cause sulfhemoglobinemia, a rare blood disorder. Discontinuing the drug led to the patient's recovery, highlighting a potential adverse effect of this medication.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Hematology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Metoclopramide is a widely used medication with known pro-oxidant properties.
- Infants are particularly susceptible to drug-induced methemoglobinemia from metoclopramide.
- Sulfhemoglobinemia is a rare condition involving an abnormal hemoglobin molecule.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing long-term metoclopramide treatment developed sulfhemoglobinemia.
- The patient's condition improved significantly after metoclopramide therapy was ceased.
Findings:
- This case suggests a potential link between chronic metoclopramide use and the development of sulfhemoglobinemia.
- The oxidant activity of metoclopramide may play a role in the pathogenesis of sulfhemoglobinemia.
- Resolution of sulfhemoglobinemia upon drug withdrawal supports a causal relationship.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential for metoclopramide to induce sulfhemoglobinemia, especially in patients on long-term therapy.
- Further research into the mechanisms of metoclopramide-induced hemoglobinopathies is warranted.
- This finding expands the known spectrum of adverse hematologic effects associated with metoclopramide.