Reglan is the brand name of the drug metoclopramide, which belongs to the class of medications called prokinetic agents. It accelerates the movement of food through the stomach and intestines. Reglan is used to treat symptoms of slow stomach emptying caused by diabetes, certain types of surgery and persistent cases of heartburn. Patients receiving chemotherapy may be given Reglan to prevent nausea and vomiting.
Tardive Dyskinesia
Physicians prescribe Reglan to relieve heartburn and heal ulcers in cases of GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, that have not responded to other treatments. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, there is an increased risk of developing tardive dyskinesia with long-term use of Reglan. Tardive dyskinesia is a neurological syndrome for which there is no standard treatment. Symptoms include repetitive, involuntary and purposeless movements. These movements present as grimacing, tongue protrusion, lip smacking and rapid eye blinking. Rapid movements of the arms, legs and upper body can occur. Involuntary movements in the fingers give the impression that a person is playing an invisible instrument such as a guitar or piano. The staff of the National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke say that the symptoms of tardive dyskinesia remain long after use of Reglan is discontinued. With careful management, some of the symptoms may improve or disappear over time.
Parkinson's-like Symptoms
Symptoms typically associated with Parkinson's disease commonly present within six months after beginning treatment with Reglan. Occasionally, the Parkinsonian-like symptoms of bradykinesia, which is the slowed ability to start and continue movement, tremors and a mask-like facial expression can appear later than six months following the start of treatment. Symptoms generally subside within two to three months following discontinuation of therapy with Reglan. People with Parkinson's disease may experience a worsening of their symptoms when taking Reglan.
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is an uncommon but serious side effect of Reglan. RxList warns that the effectiveness of current treatment for this potentially fatal syndrome with the medications, bromocriptine and dantrolene sodium, has not yet been established. A person experiencing this side effect presents with a dangerously high temperature of greater than 103 degrees F, muscle rigidity, altered consciousness, irregular pulse, sweating and cardiac arrhythmias. Arriving at a diagnosis can be challenging for a physician. Recommended management includes discontinuation of Reglan, intense treatment of the systemic medical problems and medical monitoring.
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