Reglan, also known generically as metoclopramide, is a prescription medication that works to increase muscle contractions in the upper section of the digestive tract. Faster contractions will help the stomach empty itself into the intestines faster. This can treat severe cases of heartburn, especially as part of gastroesophageal reflux disease. When food sits in the stomach for too long, it triggers more of a backup into the esophagus and that will create heartburn.

Reglan is also occasionally prescribed to patients with diabetes who are experiencing diabetic gastroparesis. This causes food to digest and move into the intestines slowly, creating gastric discomfort, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Women with morning sickness have also been prescribed this drug as well, because it works to prevent the nausea and vomiting associated with early stages of pregnancy.

Unfortunately, Reglan side effects can be quite serious. Tardive dyskinesia is the most serious of the risks associated with use of metoclopramide. It is a uncontrollable movement disorder that causes twitching of the facial muscles and extremities. This disease is impossible to cure and difficult to treat, and can be very disruptive to your everyday life.

The link between tardive dyskinesia and Reglan was announced by the FDA in early 2009. They required the drug manufacturer to add a warning label explaining the connection. The risk of developing the disease increases with the length of use of the drug. It is also higher for certain groups of people, but anyone of any age taking the drug can develop this disorder. Elderly women have the highest risk for developing this disorder as a result of taking Reglan, followed by elderly men.

If your elderly parent is prescribed this drug, be very wary. It can certainly help with the serious pain of GERD for a short time, but no patient should take a higher dose than recommended. Certainly no one should take the drug for more than 3 months. Elderly patients should likely take the drug for a much shorter time.

Seniors are at risk due to the increased risk factors that are present in their age group. Children and infants are also occasionally prescribed Reglan. However great care should be taken to ensure they won't be burdened with problems for the rest of their lives.

Tardive dyskinesia can take a long time to develop, so patients who have stopped taking Reglan may still develop the disorder. Some of the abnormal movements include lip chewing or movement, tongue thrusting, excessive blinking, and repetitive chewing. These behaviors are completely uncontrollable and can be very distracting or disruptive. Patients are often uncomfortable being in public due to their strange behaviors and movements, which can be difficult to control, even with medication.

If you or a loved one is suffering from this condition after taking Reglan, contact a lawyer as soon as possible. You may be entitled to payments to cover your medical benefits, pain and suffering, and lost wages. By speaking with a knowledgeable attorney, you will be fully informed of your rights. Even if you have not yet been diagnosed but are experiencing uncontrollable movements, speak to a Reglan attorney soon for more information.