Reglan Issued "Black Box" Warning

Ashley Davis

Contributor

0 CommentsPrint ArticleSubscribe

What is Reglan?? Reglan is used for the short-term treatment of heartburn (caused by gastroesophageal reflux) in patients who have already tried other medications but had no relief symptoms. The way that Reglan works is that it increases the muscle contractions in the upper digestive tract, which in turn speeds up the rate at which the stomach empties into the intestines. People that suffer from diabetes sometimes suffer from a slow gastric emptying, which can cause nausea, vomiting, heartburn, loss of appetite, and a feeling of fullness after meals, so they take Reglan as well. Although side effects cannot always be anticipated, it is always good to know the risks associated with Reglan such as:

• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Restlessness
• Slow movements
• Rigidity
• Tremors
• Mask-like facial appearance
• Tardive dyskinesia (A syndrome of jerky or writhing involuntary movements, particularly of the tongue, face mouth or jaw)
• Involuntary movement of the arms and legs in children
• Loud or labored breathing
• Intense restlessness

These symptoms may disappear as your body gets used to Reglan in your system, or you may need to lower your dosage.

Due to the risk of Tardive dyskinesia, On March 3, 2009 Reglan was issued a “black box” label by the FDA. If you think Reglan has affected you, then contact your doctor immediately and call the office of Reich and Binstock for an evaluation. Make sure that you are not at risk!