Reglan
The Prescription Drug Reglan
Reglan (metoclopramide) is a prescription drug that came on the market in generic form in 1982. For more than 30 years, doctors have been prescribing the drug to treat a variety of gastro-intestinal maladies including acid reflux, nausea and vomiting due to surgery or chemotherapy. It is also commonly used to treat gastroparesis, which can develop in people who have diabetes.
Despite the many studies showing that Reglan was associated with a neurological disorder, Tardive Dyskinesia, the drugs manufacturers did not warn of it on the label until 2004 and did not add the Black Box warning until February 2009.
As a side effect, Reglan may produce biochemical abnormalities in the striatum, a region of the brain that controls cognitive processes involving executive functions. Further investigation into Reglan has determined that patients, including infants, children, cigarette smokers and the elderly face significant risk of developing Tardive Dyskinesia.
According to Food and Drug Administration analysis of studies published in 2009, metoclopramide is the most common cause of drug-induced movement disorders such as Tardive Dyskinesia.
Tardive Dyskinesia is a condition that does not develop on its own due to aging or other natural causes. Instead, Tardive Dyskinesia can develop from the use of certain medications, including antipsychotics that block dopamine in the brain and cause the nerves to become hypersensitive to the chemical.
This condition causes uncontrollable, repetitive movements of the body, such as grimacing, lip smacking, eye blinking or rapid leg and arm movements. The symptoms are rarely reversible and there is no known treatment. The risk is especially associated with those who have been on the drug for a long time.
The Migliore firm has represented clients in a wide range of product liability cases in the last three decades and has worked with nationally recognized co-counsel to reach successful settlements for clients.
If you or someone you care about developed Reglan-induced Tardive Dyskinesia, please contact the law office of Rudolph F.X. Migliore, P.C. directly at (631) 543-3663 to arrange a free case evaluation or contact us.
Reglan: Frequently asked questions:
What is Tardive Dyskinesia?
Tardive Dyskinesia is an involuntary neurological mood disorder which is caused when drugs block the dopamine receptors. These drugs, such as reglan, are used to treat psychiatric conditions and gastrointestinal disorders. These conditions included Schizophrenia. If these drugs are used for a long time abnormalities on the brain in the stratum nay develop. Not all people who take this drug develop Tardive Dyskeniesia, the cause of this is not known. Tardive Dystonia is a more severe form of Tardive Dyskenesia.
What is Tardive Dystonia?
Tardive Dystonia is a form of Tardive Dyskeneisa. It is categorized by slower twisting movements of the neck and trunk muscles, which are more prominent then those of Tardive Dyskinesia. It is more severe than Tardive Dyskinesia and will cause abnormal postures. The severity will vary from patient to patient; some may experience symptoms in only one region while other may experience pain in the limbs. Tardive Dystonia, like Tardive Dyskinesia is induced.
What Are the Symptoms of Gastroparesis?
There are many symptoms of gastroparesis, including:
- Heartburn or GERD
- Nausea
- Vomiting undigested food
- Feeling full quickly when eating (early satiety)
- Abdominal bloating (enlargement)
- Poor appetite and weight loss
- Poor blood sugar control
What is a black box warning?
A black box warning is a label that appears on the package for prescription drugs that may cause serious adverse effects. The warning is printed on packaging to indicate that the drug carries a significant risk of serious or life threatening results. The Food and Drug Administration can require a pharmaceutical company to place a black box warning on dangerous medical products.
What can I do if I have been harmed by Reglan?
Under product liability laws the manufacturers of Reglan may be responsible for patients injuries caused by taking the product. It is important you contact an attorney before the statute of limitations expires to see if you have a case. The law offices of Rudolph F.X. Migliore, P.C offer a free case evaluation to determine if you have a viable lawsuit.
The Migliore firm has represented clients in a wide range of product liability cases in the last three decades and has worked with nationally recognized co-counsel to reach successful settlements for clients. If you or someone you care about developed Reglan-induced Tardive Dyskinesia, please contact the law office of Rudolph F.X. Migliore, P.C. directly at (631) 543-3663 to arrange a free case evaluation or contact us.