What it is used for
- Preventing and treating nausea and vomiting with chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- Nausea and vomiting after surgery
How it is used
- It is given as an injection into a vein or muscle by a nurse or doctor
- Your doctor decides the dose and how long to use it
Possible side effects
- Drowsiness or tiredness
- Dizziness
- Involuntary movements of the face, neck or eyes, especially in young people
- Rarely, breast swelling or changes in periods
Who should not use it
- Allergy to alizapride
- Phaeochromocytoma (an adrenal gland tumour)
- Blockage, bleeding or a tear in the gut
- A history of long-lasting involuntary movements caused by medicines such as metoclopramide or antipsychotics
Before and while using it
- Tell the staff at once about any involuntary movements or muscle stiffness
- Tell your doctor if you have Parkinson's disease, epilepsy or kidney disease
- It can cause drowsiness; do not drive after the injection until it wears off
- Children and older people are more sensitive to its side effects
Medicine interactions
- Levodopa and other Parkinson's medicines, as each reduces the other's effect
- Alcohol and sedatives increase drowsiness
- Antipsychotics and metoclopramide increase the risk of involuntary movements
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Information is limited; it is used in pregnancy or breastfeeding only if your doctor decides it is needed
How to store it
- Ampoules are stored away from light and handled by healthcare staff
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: Standard international medicine references
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.