The Dangers of Reglan – Are You At Risk?
By Danielle Briones
Published on May 18, 2009
The Food and Drug Administration recently required the manufacturer of Reglan and its generic counterpart metoclopramide to add a black box warning to the drugs' warning labels, advising consumers of the connection between long-term use of Reglan and the development of muscle disorders such as tardive dyskinesia.
Manufactured by Baxter Healthcare, Reglan was approved by the FDA for short-term treatment of gastrointestinal problems, including gastroesophageal reflux (GER), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and diabetic gastroparesis, in children and adults. The medication speeds up the rate at which food moves from the stomach to the intestines.
The Potential Dangers of Reglan
The FDA's Adverse Event Reporting System has identified dozens of cases of tardive dyskinesia and other muscle movement disorders in patients who were using Reglan. According to the FDA, most of these incidences occurred in children or in patients taking Reglan on a long-term basis.
Tardive Dyskinesia
Tardive dyskinesia is a neurological disorder that is characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements of the body. Signs of tardive dyskinesia can include:
- Involuntary movements of the arms, fingers, and legs
- Facial grimacing
- Lip smacking, puckering, and pursing
- Sucking or chewing-like movements
- Abnormal tongue movements
- Rapid blinking of the eye
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a neurological disorder that can be life threatening. Symptoms of this condition include:
- Muscle rigidity
- High fever
- Delirium or confusion
- Agitation
- Unstable blood pressure
- Rapid breathing and heart rates
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Muscle tremors
- Elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK) plasma concentration
Dystonia
Dystonia is a neurological disorder in which constant muscle contractions cause abnormal posture or repetitive movements. The symptoms of dystonia generally begin in a specific region and can include:
- Abnormal twisting or bending of the body
- Pain and cramping in affected areas
- Muscle spasms in affected areas
- Loss of muscle coordination
- Rapid blinking or squinting
- Difficulty eating, sleeping, and swallowing
Consult a Reglan Attorney
If you or a loved one has taken Reglan and is exhibiting the symptoms of a muscle disorder or other serious health problems, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Those that suffered adverse health effects as a result of Reglan use may qualify for damages for medical bills, loss of wages, and pain and suffering. If you suspect you or a loved one has a case, consult a Reglan lawyer as soon as possible. A Reglan attorney can review your claim and determine if you have a viable lawsuit.
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