Be Alert For TD Symptoms Long After Last Dose Of Reglan
Many newborns experience Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, commonly known as GERD. This illness occurs when the gastrointestinal tract is either underdeveloped - in the case of a premature birth - or poorly coordinated. Although in some children, the disorder appears because of nerve or brain issues, the culprit most frequently is the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which does not keep stomach contents from the esophagus. Ultimately the irritation causes health problems that include vomiting, coughing, lack of appetite, heartburn, abdominal pain, gas, fussiness, and regurgitation. In the past, many children suffering this disorder experienced an allayment of symptoms after taking Reglan. However, it is claimed that families were not informed of the connection between the drug metoclopramide, known commercially as Reglan, and Tardive Dyskinesia; since then, there have been reported instances of infant Tardive Dyskinesia. Taking Reglan for GERD was effective, as it targeted the LES and, as with other patients experiencing chronic stomach disorders, diminished many of the side effects related to the disease. But in some cases, parents noticed significant changes in their young children after taking the popular heartburn medication. Victims exhibit Tourettes-like symptoms, mostly in repetitive involuntary movements. In January of 2009, the first case related to the drug was reported. The various effects lingered for over nine months after the medication was stopped. Like similar disorders, the involuntary movements associated with the disorder are the most predominant symptoms. There is also a growing concern that taking Reglan during pregnancy can result in the condition. In adults, it manifests with involuntary facial movements, such as lip smacking and cheek puffing, as well as tongue thrusting and, eventually, full body tics. The disease’s symptoms look much like Parkinson’s disease. In 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a statement requiring that the makers of the drug include a “black box” warning on the prescription that accurately reflects the risks of developing the involuntary movement disorder. One of the most devastating facts is that, other than stopping use of the medication, there is no known cure. It is not understood why some children recover and others do not. For some children the long-term damage can be devastating, preventing normal social growth and making even simple tasks complicated. The toll on the families is also significant. Since the link has been established, many lawsuits have come to light, involving both adult and infant forms of the condition. Multiple legal actions have been filed in multiple districts in the United States. While medical cases are relatively rare, if you believe your child has developed the disease either during pregnancy or infancy, it is essential that you contact your attorney and learn your legal rights on the issue. There may be pending or current lawsuits that pertain to your situation. As always, the first step is to ensure your child receives appropriate medical care for the condition, and that your doctor is consulted. If it is decided your lawsuit can proceed, you may be eligible to receive compensation for medical expenses and damages.
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Reglan Lawsuits Attorneys
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