The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a “black box” warning for drugs containing metoclopramide. This is the strongest warning issued by the FDA.
Metoclopramide speeds up the movement of stomach muscles, causing the contents of the stomach to enter the intestines quicker. It is generally used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease and diabetic gastroparesis. This drug should not be taken for more than three months.
Some of the most commonly used drugs containing metoclopramide are Reglan tablets, Reglan oral disintegrating tablets, metoclopramide oral solution, and Reglan injection. The FDA estimates that over two million Americans consume these products.
The FDA has issued a black box warning due to a link between long-term or high dosage use of metoclopramide and the development of tardive dyskinesia. Tardive dyskinesia is a disorder marked by repetitive movements of the extremities, lip smacking, grimacing, tongue protrusion, blinking, puckering, or impaired finger motion.
The majority of metoclopramide users who develop tardive dyskinesia have used the product at high doses or for longer than the recommended three month usage period. Unfortunately, this disorder is usually permanent, and there is no known treatment.
If you are using a drug containing metoclopramide, consult your doctor immediately to see if there is a better option to treat your gastric disorder. If you have developed tardive dyskinesia from taking a metoclopramide drug, it is important to consult an experienced defective drug attorney at once. You may be eligible to receive compensation for the damage caused by this dangerous drug.
If you have a pharmaceutical liability claim in the Denver, Colorado area, please contact the Law Offices of Burg, Simpson, Eldredge, Hersh, & Jardine, P.C. today to schedule a consultation.
