A case of metoclopramide induced ventricular tachycardia

ABSTRACT

Metoclopramide is prokinetic drug that inhibits dopamine receptors, and it is commonly used in emergency rooms because of its anti-emetic effect. A 71-year-old man visited the hospital with upper abdominal pain and nausea, but agitation and cold sweating were observed after 5 minutes of metoclopramide injection. The vital signs were blood pressure 120/70 mmHg, heart rate 170/minute, respiration 23 breaths/minute, and temperature 37.5。C, and the electrocardiogram (ECG) showed ventricular tachycardia. One hour after the injection of amiodarone, normal sinus rhythm was shown on the ECG and the vital signs were stable. Metoclopramide is known to be relatively safe, but rarely causes serious cardiovascular side effects. Therefore, emergency physicians should be aware that metoclopramide can cause serious side effects.