Reglan Use in Infants and Children - Is it Safe?
By Michele Wallace
Published on October 19, 2009
Reglan, generically known as Metoclopramide, is a drug that increases muscle contractions in the upper digestive tract, speeding up the rate at which the stomach empties into the intestines. Children are often prescribed Reglan to treat acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux) and erosive esophagitis. However, the risks associated with Reglan outweigh the benefits, especially in infants and children where the risks are greater since children are usually more sensitive to the effects.
Reglan treatment for infants and children is still under question and is somewhat controversial since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved Reglan for any use in children or infants. Therefore, there is no approved dosage of Reglan for children or infants-Reglan doses are configured only for adults.
Current package labeling warns patients and medical professionals about the increased risk of developing the movement disorder tardive dyskinesia after chronic Reglan treatment. The development of this neurological disorder is strongly related to the length of time a patient takes Reglan and the number of doses taken. Recommended treatment is not to exceed twelve weeks. Research has shown that children are also at risk of developing muscle disorders, even after short-term Reglan use.
Tardive dyskinesia is characterized by involuntary and repetitive movements, including tongue protrusion, lip smacking, rapid eye movements or blinking, random finger movements, and rapid movements of the arms or legs. These symptoms are rarely reversible and there is no known cure. However, in some patients, symptoms may lessen or resolve after Reglan treatment is stopped.
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