Metoclopramide to Treat Anemia in Patients With Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)

This study will determine whether the medication metoclopramide can improve red blood counts in people who have myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). MDS is thought to affect blood stem cells, which can result in low levels of red blood cells-that is, anemia-as well as low white blood cell and platelet counts. Patients with MDS are at risk for infection, spontaneous bleeding, and possible progression to leukemia, a cancer of bone marrow. Although bone marrow can produce some blood cells, this production can be decreased in patients with MDS. The definitive way to treat MDS is stem cell transplantation, but serious complications and a high risk of death make it unsuitable for patients older than age 60 or those who do not have a matched sibling donor. However, scientists have noted improvement in anemia by using metoclopramide, an inexpensive, commonly used medication that does not have many negative side effects. This study will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of that medicine for patients with MDS.

Patients ages 18 to 72 whose MDS would require low-intensity treatment-for example, with growth factor and transfusions-and who are not pregnant or breastfeeding may be eligible for this study. There will be about 60 participants.

Screening tests include a complete physical examination and medical history, during which patients will provide a list of current medications or supplements they are taking. There will be a collection of about 4 tablespoons of blood for analysis of blood counts as well as liver and kidney function. Patients may also undergo a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of their brain, but the procedure is optional. During the MRI, they will lie on a table that will slide into the enclosed tunnel of the scanner. The MRI takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and patients will be asked to lie as still as possible. There will also be a bone marrow biopsy, if patients have not had one done within 4 weeks of the start of this study. Eligible patients will take a 10 mg dose of metoclopramide by mouth, three times a day, for 20 weeks. They will be given a 4-week supply, which will be renewed monthly at each treatment visit. It is essential that patients be seen at NIH during the first, third, and fifth months of the study. Visits made in the meantime, at the second and fourth months, may be done at the office of their doctors who have referred them for the study, or at NIH. During the treatment visits, patients will be asked to update their medical history, health conditions, and use of medications or herbal supplements. There will also be a collection of about 1 tablespoon of blood for laboratory tests. Patients will be asked to make a similar follow-up visit 1 month after they stop taking metoclopramide, so that the response to treatment can be evaluated.

The use of metoclopramide may cause some people to feel dizzy, lightheaded, tired, or less alert than they are normally. For the first 24 to 48 hours, patients should be cautious when driving, using machinery, or performing hazardous activities. This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other central nervous system depressants-such as medicines for allergies and colds, tranquilizers, and prescription pain relievers. Patients need to check with the research team before taking any of those types of medicines, as well as herbal supplements, while using metoclopramide.

This study may or may not have a direct benefit for participants. For some, the drug may improve red blood cell counts and decrease the need for red cell transfusions. Knowledge gained in the study may help people in the future.