Metoclopramide

Metoclopramide, better known by the brand name Reglan, is a drug that speeds up muscle contractions in the upper digestive tract, increasing the rate at which the stomach empties into the intestines. Reglan is used to treat heartburn caused by gastro-esophageal reflux in patients who have not been able to relieve symptoms with other medications. In addition, the medicine is used to treat diabetics who experience slow gastric emptying.

Reglan can cause a rare but serious condition called tardive dyskinesia. This sometimes permanent and irreversible disorder causes involuntary movement and muscle contractions in the lower face, mouth, tongue, arms, or legs. The likelihood of the condition increases when the medication is used for longer than a three month period, is prescribed in high doses, or is taken by elderly patients, especially older women.

No treatment exists for tardive dyskinesia, although the condition may lessen or stop once the patient stops taking metoclopramide. In 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration began to require all metoclopramide manufacturers to include a “black box” warning with the drug in order to warn patients of the risk of tardive dyskinesia. Unfortunately, before the risk of this condition was known, many people took the drug unaware of this debilitating disorder.

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If you or a loved one has developed tardive dyskinesia or another problem related to Reglan or other metoclopramide drugs, contact the knowledgeable Reglan side effect lawyers at the law firm of Williams Kherkher today at 800-761-3187 to discuss your rights and legal options.