Side Effects of the Drug Reglan

Reglan is one of the brand names in the U.S. for the generically named drug metoclopramide. The medication, MayoClinic.com reports, can help people suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. It can also treat gastroparesis, a condition that prevents the stomach from contracting sufficiently to transport food from the stomach into the intestines. There are side effects associated with use of Reglan.

Enervation

The use of Reglan can cause the person to experience enervation. This means the person may be sapped of normal energy and feel unable to do normal or energetic activities. Drugs.com states the lack of energy related to taking Reglan classifies as a common and non-serious side effect of the drug. This side effect is usually temporary. As the person's body adjusts to the medicine, the normal energy levels should reappear.

Incontinence

The person using Reglan for the first time may experience incontinence. The user may have difficulty holding urine and may need to make more frequent trips to the bathroom. MedlinePlus indicates urination difficulties such as these generally cease without medical intervention. Consulting a physician is recommended if this side effect persists or worsens.

Female Side Effects

A woman using Reglan may discover she has some non-serious and temporary side effects. For example, she may find she produces a discharge from her breasts, MedlinePlus states. Her breasts also may temporarily enlarge because of Reglan use. A woman using the medication may develop temporary amenorrhea, a condition in which her normal menstrual period does not occur. These side effects should subside on their own, MedlinePlus indicates. The woman should ask her doctor for help, however, if she continues to miss periods or if she continues to experience breast problems.

Diarrhea

Drugs.com indicates that Reglan use may cause the person to experience temporary bouts of mild diarrhea. This may occur because he needs to get used to having the medicine in his body. Once this occurs, the diarrhea should pass. Over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medications can help minor bowel problems; if they feel severe or persist, medical help should be sought.

References

Article reviewed by Libby Swope Wiersema Last updated on: Sep 28, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments