Accidental provocation of phaeochromocytoma: the forgotten hazard of metoclopramide?

MK Leow, KC Loh
Correspondence: Dr Melvin Leow, mleowsj@massmed.org

ABSTRACT
The perilous potential of metoclopramide when used inadvertently in patients harbouring phaeochromocytomas goes largely under-recognised. Despite the rarity of phaeochromocytoma, clinicians should exercise caution in the use of metoclopramide among hypertensives and those with labile blood pressures, given the potentially life-threatening crisis it can readily evoke in those with this tumour. We report a series of three patients with phaeochromocytoma who developed acute crises from metoclopramide.

Keywords: catecholamines, dopamine antagonists, hypertensive emergency, metoclopramide, phaeochromocytoma
Singapore Med J 2005; 46(10): 557-560