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PetDosageChart

Reglan (Metoclopramide) Dosage for Dogs

GI prokinetic / Antiemetic (dopamine antagonist) ⏱ Onset: 30-60 minutes (oral) ⏳ Duration: 6-8 hours

This dosage information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet. Dosages may vary based on your pet's health conditions, other medications, and individual factors.

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Reglan Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight

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Weight Low Dose Standard Dose Max Dose Frequency
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 0.5mg 1mg 1mg Every 6-8 hours
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 1mg 1.5mg 2.5mg Every 6-8 hours
15 lbs (6.8 kg) 1.5mg 2.5mg 3.5mg Every 6-8 hours
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 2mg 3mg 4.5mg (5mg tablet) Every 6-8 hours
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 2.5mg 4mg (5mg tablet) 5.5mg (5mg tablet) Every 6-8 hours
30 lbs (13.6 kg) 2.5mg 5mg (5mg tablet) 7mg Every 6-8 hours
40 lbs (18.1 kg) 3.5mg 6.5mg 9mg (2 × 5mg) Every 6-8 hours
50 lbs (22.7 kg) 4.5mg (5mg tablet) 8mg 11.5mg Every 6-8 hours
60 lbs (27.2 kg) 5.5mg (5mg tablet) 9.5mg (2 × 5mg) 13.5mg Every 6-8 hours
70 lbs (31.7 kg) 6.5mg 11mg (2 × 5mg) 16mg (3 × 5mg) Every 6-8 hours
80 lbs (36.3 kg) 7.5mg 12.5mg 18mg Every 6-8 hours
90 lbs (40.8 kg) 8mg 14.5mg (3 × 5mg) 20.5mg (4 × 5mg) Every 6-8 hours
100 lbs (45.4 kg) 9mg (2 × 5mg) 16mg (3 × 5mg) 22.5mg Every 6-8 hours
120 lbs (54.4 kg) 11mg (2 × 5mg) 19mg (4 × 5mg) 27mg Every 6-8 hours
150 lbs (68 kg) 13.5mg 24mg (5 × 5mg) 34mg (7 × 5mg) Every 6-8 hours

What is Reglan (Metoclopramide) used for in dogs?

Nausea and vomiting Gastroparesis Acid reflux (GERD) Post-operative nausea Megaesophagus (adjunct therapy)

How to give Reglan to your dog

Give metoclopramide tablets by mouth 30 minutes before meals for best effect. The tablet can be given directly or hidden in a small treat. For dogs with severe nausea that cannot keep pills down, injectable or liquid forms are available through your vet. Maintain consistent dosing every 6-8 hours. Do not give if your dog may have a GI obstruction (signs include severe bloating, unproductive retching, or abdominal pain). Store at room temperature.

Available Forms

Tablet, Oral solution, Injectable

Give with Food?

No — can be given without food

Side effects of Reglan in dogs

Common side effects

Restlessness
Drowsiness
Behavioral changes
Increased urination

Serious side effects

  • Extrapyramidal signs (tremors, involuntary movements)
  • Severe sedation
  • Constipation
  • Allergic reactions

When to call the vet

Call your vet immediately if your dog shows any of these signs:

  • Involuntary muscle movements, tremors, or unusual body postures
  • Severe restlessness or agitation that does not resolve
  • Vomiting continues despite treatment for more than 24 hours
  • Signs of GI obstruction (bloating, unproductive retching, severe pain)
  • Extreme sedation or inability to stand

Frequently Asked Questions

How does metoclopramide work as both an antiemetic and prokinetic?
Metoclopramide works through two mechanisms: it blocks dopamine receptors in the brain's chemoreceptor trigger zone (reducing nausea and vomiting), and it stimulates smooth muscle contractions in the upper GI tract (improving gastric emptying and forward movement of food). This dual action makes it useful for conditions involving both nausea and slow stomach emptying.
When should metoclopramide be given relative to meals?
For best results, give metoclopramide 30 minutes before meals. This allows the drug to begin stimulating gastric motility before food enters the stomach, improving emptying and reducing nausea associated with eating.
What are extrapyramidal signs and should I worry about them?
Extrapyramidal signs include involuntary muscle movements, tremors, restlessness, and abnormal postures. They result from dopamine blockade in the brain. While uncommon at standard doses, they can occur and are usually reversible when the medication is stopped. Contact your vet if you notice these signs.
Can metoclopramide be used for chronic vomiting?
Metoclopramide can be used for ongoing nausea management, but chronic vomiting should be investigated for underlying causes. Long-term use should be under veterinary supervision. For chronic conditions, newer antiemetics like maropitant (Cerenia) may be preferred due to fewer side effects.
Is metoclopramide better than Cerenia for nausea?
Maropitant (Cerenia) is generally considered more effective as a pure antiemetic and has fewer side effects. However, metoclopramide has the added benefit of improving gastric motility, making it more appropriate for conditions involving delayed stomach emptying. The choice depends on the specific condition being treated.