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Safety Information

HERE ARE SOME SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR REGLAN USERS

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The causative connection between Reglan and metoclopramide and tardive dyskinesia has been well established, but people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or diabetic gastroparesis may be able to continue short-term use of Reglan to control their gastrointestinal problems.

Here are some general safety considerations that address concerns about Reglan use. However, anyone using Reglan should make certain to read the Medication Guide included in the drug packaging, including the recent revisions. Just as important, patients should ask questions and discuss Reglan use with their physician.

  • According to the FDA, the risk of developing tardive dyskinesia is directly related to how long you take Reglan, the strength of the dosage, and how many dosages are taken. Documented movement disorders have been diagnosed most often in patients who have taken Reglan or metoclopramide for more than three months.
  • The elderly, especially women, appear to be more vulnerable to tardive dyskinesia linked with Reglan use. Older women should discuss their Reglan use with their doctor, and consider discontinuing this drug under the supervision of a physician if they have been taking it for a long time.
  • Some medicines interact with Reglan. These include cisapride or droperidol; anticholinergic medicines; certain antihistamines; narcotic pain medicines; acetaminophen; levodopa; phenothiazines; sedatives; selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; tetracycline; monoamine oxidase inhibitors; cabergoline; digoxin; and  pergolide. This is not an exhaustive list. Reglan users must be honest with their health care providers about all of the other medications, over-the-counter products, and supplements that they are taking in order to avoid the potential for dangerous drug interactions.
  • Reglan also can pose risks for people with epilepsy or other seizure disorders, people with asthma or allergies to medicines or foods, diabetics, and women who are pregnant. Breast-feeding mothers should discuss Reglan use with their doctors, since Reglan has been found in breast milk.
  • It is unwise to drink alcohol or take medications that may cause drowsiness (such as muscle relaxers or sleeping pills) along with Reglan.
  • Symptoms of Reglan overdose may include unusual movement of face, eyes, arms, or legs; agitation and confusion; or drowsiness. If you are a Reglan user and these symptoms occur, contact your local poison control center immediately, go to the nearest emergency room, or dial 911 for help.