Reglan IV (intravenous) is a prescription medication that alters chemical signals in your digestive tract to treat gastroparesis, or slow gastric emptying. Slow gastric emptying is a common complication of diabetes, according to Drugs.com, which can cause nausea, vomiting, heartburn, loss of appetite and a feeling of fullness after meals. Therefore, it may be necessary for your doctor to prescribe Reglan IV during your hospital stay to reduce the symptoms of this complication. Because Reglan IV affects chemical signals to help your symptoms, it may alter chemical signals in your nervous system or cardiovascular system and result in significant side effects.
Nervous System Side Effects
In 0.2 percent of patients, Reglan IV may affect the nervous system because it alters chemical signals that are related to brain function, according to Drugs.com. These effects include an inability to move the eyes, increased blinking or eyelid spasms, increased sweating, hallucinations, fatigue or unusual facial expression, according to the Mayo Clinic. Tell your doctor about these side effects because he may be able to adjust the dosage or prescribe a different medication. More serious neurological effects include convulsions, severe muscle stiffness, trouble speaking or swallowing and uncontrolled twisting of the neck, trunk, arms or legs. Let your nurse of doctor immediately know if you are experiencing any of these rare, but serious side effects.
Cardiovascular System Side Effects
Reglan IV may rarely affect your cardiovascular system. This occurs because Reglan IV affects chemical signals that may alter heart and blood vessel function. Side effects include irregular or fast heartbeats, swelling or lightheadedness, states Drugs.com. These side effects are not serious and will likely improve over time as your body adjusts to Reglan IV. Lying down and elevating the legs above the level of the heart may help to relieve these symptoms. Drinking water or placing a cool towel over the forehead may also help. You should always let you doctor know if you are having an irregular heartbeat or are experiencing swelling because these may be symptoms of another underlying medical condition.
Digestive Tract Side Effects
Although Reglan IV is prescribed to improve digestive tract function, Drugs.com states that Reglan IV may rarely cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Your digestive tract may be sensitive to the the effects of Reglan IV. These effects are not serious and should improve as your body adjusts to Reglan IV.
Injection Site Side Effects
Because Reglan IV is given intravenously, you may experience side effects around the injection site. This includes pain, swelling, redness, burning sensation, a tingling sensation or warmth. Immediately alert your doctor if pain is excessive or if you have signs of infection, which includes swelling, redness and warmth. Ask your doctor or nurse if you can apply ice to this area to help relieve these side effects. In addition, you doctor may prescribe a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to help reduce inflammation around the injection site.
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