TD Symptoms Include Spastic Facial Movements
Reglan induced tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a disease directly related to use of the drug metoclopramide. Its prevalence among patients posed enough of a risk that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) required all bottles of the prescription be labeled with information regarding the disease and its associated risk. This serious condition is most common among patients who took the drug for longer periods of time; age and gender also seem to be a factor. Most patients were prescribed the drug by their doctor for serious stomach ailments like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastroparesis, and diabetic gastric stasis. According to the FDA, instances of TD in patients are “directly related to the length of time a patient is taking metoclopramide and the number of doses taken." Janet Woodcock, the director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research elaborated that "the chronic use of metoclopramide therapy should be avoided in all but rare cases where the benefit is believed to outweigh the risk.” When a patient exhibits symptoms, they often appear unrelated to the use of the drug, as side effects can manifest months after first use. The primary and most severe adverse effects tend to affect the face of the patient and include spastic movements of the eyes, lips, and cheeks. These tics often become more and more pronounced and the individual has no control over them whatsoever. The movement disorder progresses from the face to the limbs and trunk, producing a Parkinson’s like appearance. Because the movements are erratic and similar to a number of other diseases - some connected to use of neuroleptics as well - a positive diagnosis can be difficult to obtain. It is estimated that over 2 million Americans suffer from TD, and treatments vary from doctor to doctor. While some people experience considerable lessening of their symptoms when they stop use of the medicine, it has no absolute cure and for many, the issues they face are irreversible. Those who suffer from TD find their entire lives changed, as the disease makes it nearly impossible to carry out even simple tasks if the tremors are serious. The social ramifications of the disease are also staggering and debilitating. For many, going out in public can feel embarrassing as they cannot control their facial expressions in any manner whatsoever. Those affected by the illness can work together with their doctor. Diagnosing the disease requires help from an experienced doctor, as there is no standard for diagnosis. If there is an established connection between use of the prescription and occurrence of the illness, then contacting a lawyer may be the best course of action. In some situations there may be options available for those who have confirmed cases of TD. Lawyer involvement is essential to get the settlement you deserve. Working together with a seasoned doctor and a lawyer gives you access to past, pending, and current cases regarding Reglan-related and infant tardive dyskinesia.
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