Cerulin® (Metoclopramide) 0.5%/2 ml, 10 ampoules

What is Cerulin® (Metoclopramide) 0.5%/2 ml?

Cerulin® is a medication containing metoclopramide, commonly used to manage nausea and vomiting. It is particularly effective for postoperative nausea, nausea from migraines, and vomiting caused by radiation therapy.

It also helps prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea in children and can be administered either intravenously or intramuscularly.

How is Cerulin® used?

Cerulin® is provided in a 0.5% solution, each vial containing 2 ml of medication.

The recommended dose depends on the condition being treated and the age of the patient.

In adults, typical doses range from 10 mg per administration, up to three times a day. In children, the dosage is based on body weight, with a maximum of 0.5 mg per kilogram of body weight per day.

What conditions does Cerulin® treat?

Cerulin® is widely used for various conditions, including:

• Prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV)
• Symptomatic relief of nausea and vomiting, including those linked to acute migraines
• Prevention of nausea caused by radiation therapy (RINV)
• In children, it is used to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea as a second-line therapy

What should you know before using Cerulin®?

Contraindications

• Allergies to metoclopramide or any of the ingredients
• History of gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation, or obstruction
• Diagnosed or suspected pheochromocytoma (a rare adrenal gland tumor)
• History of tardive dyskinesia or severe neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease
• Epilepsy, as metoclopramide can increase the frequency of seizures
• It is not recommended for children under 1 year old due to the increased risk of neurological side effects.

What precautions should you take?

Patients with a history of neurological conditions or those taking other central nervous system (CNS) medications should be cautious.

The medication may increase the risk of developing extrapyramidal symptoms (involuntary movements, tremors) and tardive dyskinesia with prolonged use, especially in elderly patients.

To reduce the risk of overdose or complications, ensure that at least 6 hours elapse between doses.

Long-term treatment beyond three months should be avoided due to the potential for irreversible movement disorders.

What side effects could occur with Cerulin®?

Common side effects include:

• Drowsiness
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Movement disorders (more frequent in children and young adults)

More severe side effects, though rare, include heart problems, such as bradycardia (slow heart rate), or QT interval prolongation, which can lead to dangerous heart arrhythmias. Careful monitoring is advised when administering the drug intravenously, especially in the elderly or those with existing heart conditions.

Can you use Cerulin® during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Cerulin® is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy if absolutely necessary, though it should be avoided in the final weeks.

Pregnant women may experience some side effects like extrapyramidal symptoms in newborns if taken too close to delivery.

Breastfeeding mothers should use it cautiously as metoclopramide is excreted in small amounts in breast milk, potentially affecting the baby.

How should Cerulin® be stored?

Cerulin® should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct light, at temperatures below 30°C (86°F), and out of reach of children.