Metoclopramide Tacrolimus

Most pharmacokinetic interactions in transplantation occur due to interactions with the CYP enzyme system however, several interactions have been shown to occur via alternative mechanisms. One of the most notable is that seen between tacrolimus and some of the prokinetic agents. Cisapride and metoclopramide have been shown to increase the absorption of tacrolimus by enhancing gastric emptying.41... 

Drugs that may affect tacrolimus include nephrotoxic agents (aminoglycosides, amphotericin B, cisplatin, cyclosporine), antifungals, bromocriptine, calcium channel blockers, cimetidine, clarithromycin, danazol, diltiazem, erythromycin, methylprednisolone, metoclopramide, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifamycins, cisapride, chloramphenicol, metronidazole, nefazodone, omeprazole, protease inhibitors, macrolide antibiotics, fosphenytoin, and St. John s wort. 

In an isolated case, metoclopramide may have increased tacrolimus levels, resulting in tacrolimus toxicity and acute renal failure. 

This appears to be the only reported case of tacrolimus toxicity, with metoclopramide, and, because of the number of complicating factors, it is by no means established. Its general significance is unclear. 

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