Orlando, FL 5/2/2009 3:03:07 AM
News / Health & Wellness

Reglan Tardive Dyskinesia Health Risk Announced by Morgan & Morgan

The attorneys of Morgan & Morgan (ForThePeople.com) are currently investigating cases of tardive dyskinesia caused by the long term use of Reglan. Tardive dyskinesia is a serious and potentially irreversible neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements in the face and extremities. 

Reglan (generic name Metoclopramide) is a prescription drug used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acid reflux disease, and heart burn. It has also been prescribed for women who are pregnant and experiencing morning sickness, people undergoing cancer treatment, infants and children, and post-operative patients. Metoclopramide is available in several forms, including Reglan tablets, Reglan oral disintegrating tablets, metoclopramide oral solution, and Reglan injection.

While the FDA has approved Reglan only for short-term use, many patients are being prescribed the medication for 12 months or greater. It is critical that Reglan is used only for short-term relief of gastrointestinal problems when other treatments have failed. In February 2009, the Food and Drug Administration issued a black box warning (its strongest warning) for Reglan and other metoclopramide-containing drugs due to the risk of tardive dyskinesia for people who take the drug in high doses or over a long period of time.

Symptoms of tardive dyskinesia include involuntary movements of the tongue, lips or jaw, as well as facial grimacing and rapid eye blinking. Rapid, involuntary movements of the fingers, hands, arms, shoulders, legs, and trunk are additional symptoms of this condition. These symptoms are rarely reversible and there are no effective treatments available for tardive dyskinesia at this time. The elderly and people who have been on the drug for a long period of time are at the highest risk for developing these problems.

To learn more about the risks associated with long term use of Reglan, visit http://www.forthepeople.com/reglan_lawyers.htm. If you or a loved one has experienced any of the symptoms of tardive dyskinesia after using Reglan, fill out the free case evaluation form to find out if you can participate in a lawsuit against the manufacturers of this drug. The attorneys at Morgan & Morgan are dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals who have been harmed by defective and dangerous drugs.

About Morgan & Morgan

Morgan & Morgan is one of the largest Personal Injury law firms in the country with offices nationwide. The firm handles product liability cases, personal injury cases, and medical malpractice cases, as well as claims against drug and medical device manufacturers. Visit http://www.forthepeople.com/ for a free case evaluation and information about your legal rights.