Reglan (metoclopramide), used to treat conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acid reflux disease and heartburn, may cause serious harm with long-term use, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Relgan, also used to treat nausea in cancer patients and morning sickness in pregnant women, has been linked to the movement disorder tardive dyskinesia.
Tardive dyskinesia causes involuntary muscle movements of the face, tongue, or extremities. Symptoms may include:These symptoms are rarely reversible and no known treatment exists.
If you or a loved one experienced serious side effects from Reglan, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering and other damages. Contact a lawyer at Metzger Wickersham. A delay may affect your legal rights.
Reglan also has been linked to a very rare, but serious condition called neuropleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), which is often fatal. Symptoms, which include high fever, sweating, unstable blood pressure, stupor, and stiff muscles, can appear within the first 2 weeks of taking the drug.
The FDA now requires that metoclopramide-containing drugs carry a black box warning. Manufacturers must ensure that patients receive a medication guide that discusses the risks of Reglan use each time they receive this medication from a pharmacy.
Reglan is approved for the short-term (no longer than 3 months) treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. The FDA approved its use for 4 to 12 weeks, but a study found that 20 percent of patients have been taking the drug for a year or more. Reglan (metoclopramide) is available in tablet, oral solution, or injection form. The FDA estimates that more than 2 million Americans use these products.
Contact our personal injury firm if you have suffered side effects after taking Reglan. At Metzger Wickersham, our lawyers are committed to helping clients successfully resolve their claims.
