Tardive Dyskinesia Sufferers Can Be Prisoners In Their Own Homes
Tardive dyskinesia is not a particularly well known condition. Imagine spending your waking hours with uncontrolled grimacing of the face, rapid eye movements or blinking, jaw moving back and forth, a repetitive chewing with no food in your mouth and your tongue thrusting in and out. It can even involve other parts of the body, with jerking movements of the arms, legs, and torso.
Did you know that Reglan has consistently been over-prescribed and that as a result quite a few people suffer from reglan side effects. If you or a loved one have any of these side effects you should contact a Reglan lawyer to learn about possible financial compensation.
It is a side effect of taking medications called neuroleptics. Mental illnesses, particularly schizophrenia are often treated using neuroleptics. They have been used since the 1950’s and since that time it has been found that 20-30% of those taking the drug develop tardive dyskinesia.
It was often seen as a low enough risk given the benefits and the seriousness of these types of mental conditions.Reglan, also called metoclopramide, is one of the drugs in this family. It is often given to treat gastrointestinal disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), persistent heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and a persistent full feeling.
In 2009, the American FDA issued a warning about the long-term or high-dose use of Reglan because of reports concerning patients who developed tardive dyskinesia. The drug was never meant to be prescribed in high dosages or for long term use, according to the original FDA-approval.
That brings us to the most vulnerable population who are being victimized by this drug, our senior citizens. Depending on the quality of care, how often are these medications reviewed, adjusted, and discontinued when necessary? It is this inattentiveness that can often lead to serious drug side effects, such as tardive dyskinesia in the case of Reglan.
Sometimes, discontinuing the drug can minimize the permanent nature of the side effects. Contact a Reglan lawyer who can supply you with a simple form, free of charge, that you can fill out to have your case reviewed.
This article is mean to convey information only. Be sure to consult with a physician or other licensed medical practitioner before entering into or changing your use of prescription drugs.