Reglan

Generic name: Metoclopramide hydrochloride

What is Reglan?

Reglan increases the contractions of the stomach and small intestine, helping the passage of food. It is used to treat the symptoms of diabetic gastroparesis, a condition in which the stomach does not contract. These symptoms include vomiting, nausea, heartburn, feelings of indigestion, persistent fullness after meals, and appetite loss.

Reglan is also used for short periods to treat heartburn in people with gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), in which stomach contents backflow into the esophagus. In addition, it is given to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy and surgery.

What is the most important information I should know about Reglan?

Reglan may cause symptoms similar to those of Parkinson's disease, such as slow movements, rigidity, tremor, or a mask-like facial appearance.

Reglan may also cause tardive dyskinesia, a syndrome of jerky or writhing involuntary movements, particularly of the tongue, face, mouth, or jaw. Elderly people are at a higher risk for this condition. In children and adults <30, Reglan may cause involuntary movements of the arms and legs, and sometimes loud or labored breathing, usually in the first day or two of treatment.

Reglan may cause intense restlessness with associated symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, foot-tapping, pacing, inability to sit still, jitteriness, and insomnia. These symptoms may disappear as your body gets used to Reglan, or if your dosage is reduced.

Who should not take Reglan?

You should not take Reglan if you: have an obstruction, perforation, or hemorrhage of the stomach or small bowel that might be aggravated by increased stomach and small-bowel movement; have pheochromocytoma (a nonmalignant tumor that causes hypertension), since taking Reglan could trigger a dangerous jump in blood pressure; have epilepsy, since taking Reglan could increase the frequency and severity of seizures; are taking a drug that is likely to cause side effects such as tremors, jerks, grimaces, or writhing movements, since taking Reglan could make such symptoms more severe; are <18 years of age; are allergic to or sensitive to Reglan

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Reglan?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Reglan. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney disease, cirrhosis (chronic liver disease), a history of depression, Parkinson's disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stomach problems or if you have recently had stomach surgery.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Symptoms of GERD

The usual dose is 10 milligrams (mg) to 15 mg of Reglan, up to 4 times a day, 30 minutes before each meal and at bedtime, depending upon the symptoms being treated and the effectiveness of the dose. Treatment usually lasts no longer than 12 weeks. If symptoms occur only intermittently or at specific times of the day, your doctor may give you a single dose of up to 20 mg as a preventive measure.

Elderly: Older patients may need only 5 mg per dose

Symptoms Associated with Diabetic Gastroparesis or Gastric Stasis

Adults: The usual dose is 10 mg taken 30 minutes before each meal and at bedtime for 2 to 8 weeks.

How should I take Reglan?

Reglan is usually taken 30 minutes before a meal. If you suffer from heartburn that occurs only intermittently or only at certain times of day, your doctor may want you to schedule your Reglan therapy around those times.

You will probably take Reglan for only 4 to 12 weeks. Continuous treatment beyond 12 weeks is not recommended.

If you have diabetic "lazy stomach" (gastric stasis) that tends to recur, your doctor may want you to take Reglan at the first sign of a recurrence.

What should I avoid while taking Reglan?

Reglan may make you drowsy and impair your coordination. You should not drive, climb, or perform hazardous tasks until you know how the medication affects you.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Reglan?

If Reglan is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Reglan with the following: acetaminophen, alcohol, antispasmodic drugs, cimetidine, cyclosporine, digoxin, insulin, MAO inhibitor antidepressants, levodopa, narcotic painkillers, sleeping pills, tetracycline, tranquilizers

What are the possible side effects of Reglan?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: drowsiness, fatigue, restlessness, weakness, insomnia, headache, confusion, dizziness

Can I receive Reglan if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Reglan during pregnancy are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant. Reglan appears in breast milk. Your doctor may recommend that you discontinue Reglan while you are breastfeeding your baby.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Reglan?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Reglan?

Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant container.