Anti-nauseants for migraine (Formulary: CNS)

TAM (Treatments and Medicines) NHS Highland
NHS Highland

Guidelines

METOCLOPRAMIDE

Therapy notes

MHRA advice: Metoclopramide: risk of neurological adverse effects (December 2014) (www.gov.uk).

  • Metoclopramide is a prokinetic. It is contra-indicated in gastro-intestinal obstruction, perforation or haemorrhage. Avoid where haematemesis or melaena are present.
  • Caution in Parkinson’s disease.

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

  • Metoclopramide tablets 10mg

Indication: 

  • Symptomatic treatment of nausea and vomiting, including that associated with acute migraine. For a maximum of 5 days.

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

  • Metoclopramide oral solution 5mg/5mL

Indication: 

  • Symptomatic treatment of nausea and vomiting, including that associated with acute migraine. For a maximum of 5 days.

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

  • Metoclopramide injection 10mg/2mL

PROCHLORPERAZINE

Therapy notes

  • Avoid prochlorperazine in balance disturbances in older people as it may often lead to drug-induced Parkinson’s disease, postural hypotension and mental confusion.

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

  • Prochlorperazine tablets 5mg

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

  • Prochlorperazine buccal tablets 3mgOTC

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

  • Prochlorperazine injection 12·5mg/mL

Note: 

  • Prochlorperazine injection is considered INAPPROPRIATE for patients with reduced consciousness due to its tendency to deepen any state of sedation.

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 30/04/2026

Version: 2

Document Id: F408