How Reglan Works

Physicians will prescribe Reglan, containing the drug metoclopramide, to sufferers of chronic heartburn. Heartburn, or acid reflux, is caused when the valve between the esophagus and stomach weakens. This allows stomach acid to splash up into the esophagus, burning the tissue and causing the uncomfortable and painful feeling of heartburn.

Reglan works to alleviate the symptoms of acid reflux in several different ways. First, as mentioned above, a weakened valve between the stomach and the esophagus can cause this problem. The valve is called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). One way that metoclopramide works is by strengthening and toning the LES, keeping it shut tighter so that stomach acid cannot splash up into the esophagus. This is why Reglan works for treating diseases like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Additionally, metoclopramide helps regulate the muscle movement along the gastrointestinal tract. While it has little to no effect on the gallbladder and colon, it increases the peristalsis of the small intestine to squeeze food along faster. It also relaxes the pyloric sphincter, or the valve connecting the stomach to the small intestine. Because of this, Reglan may be prescribed to people with diabetic gastroparesis, which causes food to sit in the stomach without being passed along the intestines.

Risks of Reglan

Sadly, although metoclopramide can be helpful for many people, it can also cause lifelong disabilities like tardive dyskinesia. This disorder is characterized by involuntary movement of the face. Additionally, prolonged or heavy use of Reglan can cause tardive dystonia, cervical dystonia, and even neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Contact Us

Taking metoclopramide drugs can actually cause more harm than good. If you or someone you know has developed a neuromuscular disorder due to Reglan, contact a Houston Reglan lawyer from Williams Kherkher today at 800-761-3187.