Reglan

Reglan is a prescription drug, which can be used to treat gastrointestinal conditions such as heartburn, nausea and vomiting in adults and children and sometimes infants. The drug works by increasing the contractions of the stomach, which leads to improved stomach emptying, and movement of the upper intestines.

Reglan belongs to the Metoclopramide class of drugs known as dopamine receptor antagonists. This drug has serious side effects and should only be prescribed for between 4-12 weeks. However, data has surfaced revealing that many patients are receiving long-term prescriptions, which can lead to serious, life altering reactions.

In February of 2009, the Food and Drug Administration issue a Public Health Advisory required a "black box" warning label on all containers of Reglan stating:

The U.S Food and Drug Administration announced today that manufactures of metaclopromide, a drug used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, must add a boxed warning to their drug labels about the risk of its long term or high dose use.

Chronic use of metoclopramide has been linked to Tardive Dyskinesia, which may include involuntary and repetitive movements of the body, even after the drugs are no longer taken. "The FDA wants patients and health care professionals to know about this risk so they can make informed decisions about treatment," said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. "The chronic use of metoclopramide therapy should be avoided in all but rare cases where the benefit is believed to outweigh the risk."

What are the Side Effects of Reglan

Reported cases link Reglan to a condition called Tardive Dyskinesia, a disorder noted by involuntary movements, facial grimacing and other uncontrollable physical movement known as "tics". In more serious cases, victims suffer the debilitating effects of the condition for the rest of their lives. The longer a victim is on Reglan, the more likely they will experience this and other side effects.

One often finds tongue licking, sucking and smacking of the mouth, Lip pursing, facial movements, and blinking can be typical. Muscles of the arms and legs can be affected resulting in hand clenching, jerking, foot tapping, twist and swaying in conjunction with head tilting to the side of the back. The condition can develop into adversely affecting the ability to breathe, swallow, walk and talk.

Another serious side effect of Reglan is neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a serious sometimes fatal nervous system problem.

If you or a loved one suffers from Tardive Dyskinesia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome or other permanent nervous system disorder including shaking, tremors or uncontrolled body movements after taking Relgan call 1-800-LAW-3333 and speak to the Attorneys at The Yankowitz Law Firm. Learn how we can protect your legal rights and help you obtain the justice and financial compensation you deserve.