Reglan Lawyer

The Gallagher Law Firm is currently prosecuting cases involving the pharmaceutical drug Reglan which has been connected to known incidences of Tardive Dyskinesia (TD). In fact, one study revealed that as many as 20% of Reglan users developed Tardive Dyskinesia.

Contact The Gallagher Law Firm at (888) 222-7052 or contact us online if you think you or a relative may have developed Tardive Dyskinesia while taking Reglan and want to know more about your options and rights regarding a Reglan lawsuit.

The drug Reglan (Generic name: metoclopramide (MET oh KLOE pr amide)) is a gastroprokinetic and antiemetic agent used for short term treatment of heartburn and nausea and vomiting. Reglan is also used to treat diabetic gastroparesis (slow stomach emptying in diabetics) and to speed the healing of ulcers and sores in the esophagus in people who have Gastroesophageal reflux disease. Brand names for this drug are Reglan, Reglan ODT, Metozol ODT and Ocatmide.

How Reglan Works

Metoclopramide increases muscle contractions in the upper digestive tract, speeding up the rate of which the stomach empties into the intestines by interacting with receptors for acetylcholine and dopamine on gastrointestinal muscles and nerves. The anti-emetic properties of this drug are due to its antagonist activity in the central nervous system, preventing nausea and vomiting triggered by most stimuli.

Possible Side Effects and Potential Dangers

Common adverse drug reactions associated with use of this drug are restlessness, drowsiness, dizziness, excessive tiredness, physical weakness, headache, and diarrhea. Less common side effects include hypertension, hypotension, constipation, tightening of the muscles of the jaw and neck, muscle stiffness, sweating, pacing, foot tapping, confusion, sudden weight gain, thoughts of suicide and depression.

Tardive Dyskinesia and Reglan

This medication may cause Tardive Dyskinesia (TD), which can be permanent. TD is sudden, uncontrolled movements or jerks in the face, mouth, tongue, arms or legs. Also repetitive movements including lip smacking, grimacing, tongue protrusion, rapid eye movements or blinking, puckering or pursing of the lips. These symptoms are rarely reversible, but can possibly lessen after discontinued use of this drug. TD risks are greater when this medication has been used in high doses, for longer than 12 weeks, or in the young or elderly.

History of Reglan

This drug was first introduced into the market in 1964 by Drs. C.Laville and Louis Justin-Besançon. In 2009 the FDA ordered a “black box” warning, the FDA’s strongest, due to the risk of Tardive Dyskinesia. In a recent FDA study, they found that 20% of patients who used metoclopramide and developed TD took it for longer than 3 months.

Contact The Gallagher Law Firm at (888) 222-7052 or contact us online if you think you or a relative may have developed Tardive Dyskinesia while taking Reglan and would like to discuss your options and rights with a Reglan lawyer.