Reglan, also known as metoclopramide, has been prescribed for gastro-esophageal reflux (GER) and gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), as well as to combat nausea. 
The drug speeds up the rate at which food moves from the stomach to the intestine which reduces gastric problems in people with gastro-esophageal disorders such as acid-reflux. Recently, the Food and Drug Administration has ordered the makers of the drug to post warnings on the labels regarding possible serious side effects. The side effects are not reversible and some are potentially life threatening. Tardive Dyskinesia One of the potential Reglan side effects, though not life threatening, can be life altering. Tardive dyskinesia is a disorder resulting in involuntary repetitive body movements. Those who suffer from the disorder exhibit involuntary movement of the arms, fingers and legs, facial grimacing, lip smacking, abnormal tongue movements and rapid eye blinking. Although the movements appear similar to Parkinson’s Disease, those who suffer from tardive dyskinesia have difficulty keeping still and may actually feel pain and anxiety if they cannot move. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Reglan has also been linked to cases of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of the disease include muscle cramps, muscle rigidity, high fever, delirium and unstable blood pressure. The disease can progress rapidly and if not treated early can lead to death. It is important to get anyone suffering from symptoms of NMS to an emergency room immediately in order to begin treatment as quickly as possible. Other Side Effects Other side effects linked to metoclopromide and included in Reglan legal claims are ocular deviations, which are irregular movements of the eye caused by paralyzation of the extraocular muscle. Another illness related to Reglan affecting the eyes is blepharospasm which is the involuntary contraction of eye muscles which can cause blindness. Cervical dystonia, the abnormal squeezing and twisting of the muscles in the head and neck as well as Parksonian symptoms are all reported side effects of the drug. Reglan is the subject of an ongoing lawsuit due to the extent of the damage done to patients who took the drug long-term without knowing of the possibility of these serious side effects. If you or someone you love has taken Reglan and suffered from side effects you think are related to its use, don’t hesitate to contact us with questions – www.frenkelfirm.com.
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