# Oculogyric Crisis in Early Pregnancy: Lessons Learned From a Rare Adverse Effect of Metoclopramide

**Authors:** Kajananan Sivagurunathan, Prashanthan Kaneshamoorthy, Nalayini Jegathesan, Peranantharajah Thampipillai

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.78522 · Cureus · 2025-02-04

## TL;DR

A pregnant woman experienced a rare side effect from metoclopramide, which was successfully treated with trihexyphenidyl.

## Contribution

Highlights a rare adverse effect of metoclopramide in pregnancy and its effective treatment.

## Key findings

- A 12-week pregnant woman developed oculogyric crisis after metoclopramide use.
- Oral trihexyphenidyl rapidly resolved the dystonia symptoms.
- Early recognition of rare drug reactions is crucial to prevent complications.

## Abstract

Metoclopramide is a widely prescribed antiemetic, particularly in pregnancy, for managing nausea and vomiting. While it is considered safe in most cases, rare extrapyramidal side effects such as acute dystonia with oculogyric crisis can occur. Here, we present a case of a 12-week pregnant woman who developed acute dystonia with oculogyric crisis after treatment with metoclopramide. Oral trihexyphenidyl (Benzhexol) led to rapid symptom resolution. This case emphasizes the need for awareness of rare adverse drug reactions and the importance of early recognition to prevent further complications.

## Linked entities

- **Chemicals:** metoclopramide (PubChem CID 4168), trihexyphenidyl (PubChem CID 5572)
- **Diseases:** oculogyric crisis (MONDO:0000483)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** dystonia (MESH:D004421), nausea (MESH:D009325), vomiting (MESH:D014839), Oculogyric Crisis (MESH:D001752)
- **Chemicals:** Benzhexol (MESH:D014282), Metoclopramide (MESH:D008787)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## Figures

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## References

14 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11885625/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11885625