Metoclopramide and unintended weight gain.

OBJECTIVE

This paper describes the case of a 19-year-old female with anorexia nervosa (restricting type) who was prescribed metoclopramide (Reglan, Robins, Richmond, VA) for delayed gastric emptying. She subsequently experienced dramatic and unintended weight gain.

RESULTS

The initial treatment of delayed gastric emptying with metoclopramide did not result in a significant change in body weight. However, an increase in the dose resulted in a 20% increase in the patient's body weight over a 2-month period.

DISCUSSION

The risks of weight gain that accompany the administration of metoclopramide are discussed, as well as the postulated etiology and psychological implications for the patient.