What is metoclopramide?

Metoclopramide is the generic name of a prokinetic drug that stimulates the muscles of the digestive tract, specifically those around the lower esophageal sphincter and the small intestine, according to MedicineNet. This stimulation has proven to be an effective treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD.

In some patients with GERD, the lower esophageal sphincter becomes weak, which allows stomach acid to flow up to the esophagus, according to MedicineNet. Metoclopramide strengthens the lower esophageal sphincter so that it remains closed, and acid stays in the stomach. It has also been used by people who have gastroparesis, which is a delay in the emptying of the stomach due to nerve damage.