Reglan
Reglan (generic: Metoclopramide) is manufactured by Baxter Healthcare and is prescribed for treatment of certain stomach and intestinal issues including heartburn.
Reglan is intended for short-term use. However, at least 20% of patients taking the drug use it longer than the recommended time. Long-term users of the drug are at an increased risk for developing tardive dyskinesia, a condition in which a person develops involuntary movements of their muscles. Such involuntary movements include:
- lip smacking and pursing
- tongue protrusions
- grimacing
- excessive blinking
- movements and twitching of extremities
- jerking of the abdomen and diaphragm (leading to irregular breathing).
This condition can affect users of the drug even after discontinuing use.
Reglan was first introduced to the market in 1979. However, in February 2009, the FDA mandated that the makers of Reglan and other Metoclopramide products add a boxed warning to their labels regarding the risk of tardive dyskinesia associated with chronic, long-term use.
Reglan lawsuits have been filed alleging that sales representatives knew about and encouraged long-term prescription of Reglan to patients with chronic conditions. If you or a loved one has suffered from tardive dyskinesia as a result of taking Reglan, you may be entitled to compensation. Call us at (478) 745-9002 for a free consultation.
