Reglan Alert: Irreversible Muscle Disorder

Reglan users take note: this FDA approved prescription medication, used for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, may put you at risk for developing an incurable muscle disorder known as tardive dyskinesia (TD).

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified extended use of Reglan, or metoclopramide, as the cause of tardive dyskinesia and required Baxter Healthcare Corporation, the makers of Reglan, to issue a boxed warning stating: "The risk of developing tardive dyskinesia increases with duration of treatment and total cumulative dose."

If you have developed this serious condition following the use of Reglan, contact our office to learn your legal rights and options. Call the Munley, Munley & Cartwright law firm from anywhere in the United States toll free at 877-421-9173 for a free consultation or contact us through our online forms.

Reglan has been prescribed to treat acid reflux and to prevent nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy treatments. It has also been used to relieve symptoms of slow digestion in people with diabetes, and for the treatment of women who are pregnant and experiencing morning sickness.

TD Symptoms

Tardive dyskinesia can cause uncontrolled spasms of your face and neck muscles, or muscles of your body, arms and legs (dystonia). There is no treatment for TD, but symptoms may lessen or go away over time, although TD may persist even after discontinuing treatment with Reglan. The muscle spasms can cause abnormal movements and body positions.

Additional symptoms associated with TD include:

• Lip smacking, chewing, or puckering of the mouth;
• Frowning or scowling;
• Sticking out your tongue;
• Blinking and moving your eyes;
• Shaking of your arms and legs.

The medication guide warns that while the risk of TD with metoclopramide has not been extensively studied, one published report found a TD prevalence of 20 percent among patients treated for at least 12 weeks. Reglan has been prescribed to more than 2 million people with a recommendation for up to three months of use. One in every five users takes it for longer periods because of the chronic nature of the conditions that the drug treats. The extended use puts patients at a higher risk of developing tardive dyskinesia.  

Contact us Today

If you have experienced side effects consistent with Reglan use, including uncontrolled muscle spasms or any of the other potential health risks, you may be entitled to compensation. Financial compensation can help take care of your medical bills and other expenses while helping you to rebuild your life. The experienced attorneys of Munley, Munley, & Cartwright will meet with you to evaluate your information and determine if you have a case.

"The Family of Lawyers" at Munley, Munley & Cartwright are experienced and successful pharmaceutical litigators. We fight to protect the rights of patients. Contact us now for a free claim evaluation at 877-421-9173.