Hundreds of patients have filed a Reglan lawsuit against the drug’s many manufacturers after suffering serious neurological side effects from Reglan.
Reglan is a prescription medication used to treat digestive disorders, which include nausea, gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD), heartburn, acid reflux and esophageal ulcers. Some diabetic patients are prescribed Reglan to treat a form of stomach muscle paralysis known as gastroparesis. This condition can slow digestion and raise blood sugar levels. Reglan is used to speed up the emptying of the stomach, causing blood sugar to drop.
The active ingredient in Reglan is metoclopramide, which was originally developed as an antipsychotic drug. Several companies have sold Reglan under different brand names, since generic versions became available.
The most common adverse Reglan side effect is a neurological disorder known as tardive dyskinesia. This causes involuntary movements in the face and neck. The irreversible condition can cause one to smack their lips unintentionally, stick out their tongue, involuntarily move their eyes, pucker the lips and shake arms and legs. Many people have filed lawsuits as a result of these side effects.
Another neurological side effect from Reglan is Parkinsonism. This causes people to develop the same involuntary movements associated with Parkinson’s disease. Some symptoms include slowed body movement, impairment of speech and stiff muscles. In many cases, Parkinsonism is said to be reversible. Some patients report relief after changing medications.
Black Box Warning
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a black box warning for all metoclopramide drugs. This warning advised patients that taking this drug for more than twelve weeks could increase the risk of developing tardive dyskinesia. This warning has been carried on Reglan labels as well as on similar drugs since 2009. Metoclopramide drugs also carry a warning about the increased risk of developing Parkinsonism, although not a black box warning.
Hundreds of Reglan lawsuits have been filed and the number is expected to grow, including lawsuits filed against manufacturers of the generic versions of the drug. If you have been suffered ill effects of a dangerous or defective drug, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the drug manufacturer.
Seek a consultation with one of our experienced Gacovino Lake attorneys at 1-800-246-HURT (4878) to discuss your case and review the legal options available to you.
