Be Alert For Repetitive, Spastic Facial Movements Among Other Side Effects
Since February 2009, the FDA has required that a “black box” warning appear on all drugs containing metoclopramide, including Reglan. Side effects reported in individuals taking the drug vary widely, but its connection to the movement disorder tardive dyskinesia (TD) resulted in the warning. Additionally, TD is not the only disease known to occur in those using neuroleptics. For this reason it is extremely important that patients and doctors carefully monitor Reglan side effects during treatment. Drugs with metoclopramide have long been prescribed to men and women suffering from a host of gastrointestinal disorders, as they are known to allay nausea and treat acid reflux. Doctors sometimes recommend the medicine to those suffering from gastroparesis, or partial paralysis of the stomach, in which food is slowed significantly in the digestive track. This condition causes heartburn, upper abdomen pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. The new FDA alert, however, has insisted that doctors only prescribe the medicine after weighing the risks and benefits seriously. For decades, the drug and others similar to it have been prescribed to patients suffering severe reflux, gastroparesis, and diabetic gastric stasis. The government agency’s report drew a direct correlation between the dosage and length of dose and the occurrence of TD. The signs of this disorder include: • Repetitive, involuntary movements of the arms and legs
• Lip smacking and other mouth and lip movements
• Rapid blinking
• Diminished movement of the fingers As it progresses, involuntary motion can become more severe, affecting other parts of the body. Advanced cases present with head nodding, rocking of the upper torso, shoulder shrugging, diaphragm contractions, and hip rocking. Victims of the disorder will also find that their fingers will move unbidden, and wrists rotate; they are often unaware of the movements. However, the most common adverse effects from the drug are minor in nature and generally no cause for concern. These include decreased energy, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, restlessness, fatigue, and trouble sleeping. However, in a small percentage of patients, symptoms are considerably more severe and require immediate medical attention. These include severe allergic reactions, difficulty breathing or skin irritation, confusion, abnormal thinking, unusual weight gain, sudden and increased sweating, shortness of breath, hallucinations, loss of bladder control, decreased sexual ability, changes in heart beat or heart rhythms, seizures, mental and mood changes such as increased depression or anxiety, and suicidal thoughts or actions. Approximately .2% of people taking neuroleptic drugs suffer from neuroleptic malignant syndrome. The disease typically progresses from muscular rigidity to high fever, as well as instability in the autonomic nervous system, including irregular blood pressure, cognitive problems, marked agitation and restlessness, delirium, and coma. In some cases, these signs are mistaken for mental illness and go undiagnosed. Without treatment the disease can be fatal. The first step toward treating this illness is eliminating the dose altogether. Then doctors may combine a series of approaches, which could include administering benzodiazepine - muscle relaxants - as well as drugs that provide circulatory and ventilatory support, such as bromocriptine, apomorphine, and dantrolene sodium. While fatalities are generally between 5 and 15%, intense medical attention is essential for recovery. Many people are now seeking legal advice if they believe their health has been compromised. For those who have been harmed by Reglan, law firm experience is important. Many have done significant research regarding the various related diseases, helping people receive compensation with the right legal approach. In order to rule out any other possible causes for your illness, it is essential that you consult with a doctor.
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Reglan Lawsuits Attorneys
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