FDA Warns Against Heartburn Drug – Reglan
Reglan generically known as metoclopramide
FDA officials warn that the long-term use of metoclopramide, a drug used to treat heartburn, is linked to muscle spasms and tics.
Metoclopramide, which comes in a variety of forms including tablets, injections and oral solutions, speeds up the work of muscles used in digestion and subsequently treats gastrointestinal disorders particularly acid reflux and heartburn.
The drug’s current labeling mentions the risk of developing the spasms called tardive dyskinesia; health officials, however, urge drug makers to highlight the warning.
FDA ordered manufacturers to add a “black box” warning, the strongest available, and develop a patient-friendly guide explaining the risk.
Health officials also advise individuals to avoid the chronic use of the drug unless its benefits outweigh the risk.
Chronic use has been linked to tardive dyskinesia, which causes repetitive movements of the limbs, lip smacking, grimacing, tongue protrusion and rapid eye movements and blinking. The symptoms are rarely reversible but may lessen or resolve after metoclopramide treatment ends, the FDA said.
According to a recently-released FDA statement, they recommended that treatment not exceed three months because the risk of the movement disorder was “directly related to the length of time a patient is taking metoclopramide and the number of doses taken.” The elderly, especially older women, face greater risks, the agency said.
The condition is reported to be irreversible in the majority of cases even after stopping the use of the drug.
Please check your heartburn medication now. If you are happened to be taking it, I strongly advise you not to continue or you can ask your doctor.
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