Reglan

The active ingredient in Reglan is metoclopramide. Metoclopramide is a prokinetic agent that can increase motility (movements and contractions) of the upper gastrointestinal tract (GIT) which includes the esophagus, stomach, and beginning portion of the intestines. This increases stomach emptying and movement throughout the upper GIT.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Reglan. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Reglan:

• Typically, Reglan is taken by mouth before meals and at bedtime.
• Use exactly as prescribed. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of use. Reglan should not be used for more than 12 weeks unless authorized by your doctor.
• Do not use alcohol while taking Reglan. There is an increased risk of side effects if both are used together.
• Because Reglan can cause drowsiness, do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Reglan affects you.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Reglan include:

• Restlessness
• Drowsiness
• Tiredness and fatigue
• Lack of energy

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Reglan. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of an allergic reaction such as trouble breathing, rash, hives, or swelling of the face, eyes, tongue, throat, or lips.
• Feel depressed or have suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
• Uncontrolled movements that are new or unusual. These can include lip smacking, chewing, blinking or moving your eyes, or shaking your limbs.
• Signs of dystonia or involuntary muscle spasms in the face, neck, arms, or legs. These can sometimes be treated with other medications such as diphenhydramine or benztropine.
• Signs of Parkinsonism such as tremors, muscle stiffness, trouble moving, or difficulties maintaining balance.
• Signs of akathisia which is a severe form of restlessness. You may feel jittery, anxious, irritated, have trouble sleeping, or feel the need to pace.
• Signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) such as a high fever, stiff neck, fast or irregular heartbeat, sweating, or problems thinking.
• High blood pressure.
• Signs of fluid retention such as sudden weight gain or swelling of the hands, legs, or feet.
• Signs of excessive prolactin hormone such as changes in menstrual cycle, enlarged breasts, lactation, or impotency.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Reglan. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Reglan, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Diabetes
• Problems controlling movements following medications
• Parkinson’s disease
• Pheochromocytoma
• Kidney problems
• Liver disease
• Depression or mental illness
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Heart failure
• Heart rhythm problems
• Breast cancer
• Drink alcohol
• Seizures
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

Boxed Warning

• Using Reglan at high doses or for longer than necessary can increase the risk of tardive dyskinesia (TD). This is a permanent movement disorder for which there is no cure.

Do not use Reglan if you have:

• Problems with controlling muscle movements (tardive dyskinesia)
• Stomach or intestinal problems such as a bleed, blockage, perforation, or tear
• A certain adrenal gland tumor (pheochromocytoma)
• Epilepsy
• An allergy to metoclopramide

After taking Reglan, you can typically expect to see benefits within an hour. However, everyone is different and some may see the effects of metoclopramide sooner or later.

When Reglan is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Antipsychotics
• Quinidine
• Bupropion
• Fluoxetine
• Paroxetine
• MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)
• Hypnotics
• Sedatives
• Opioids
• Anxiolytics
• Antidiarrheals
• Anticholinergics
• Apomorphine
• Bromocriptine
• Cabergoline
• Levodopa
• Pramipexole
• Ropinirole
• Rotigotine
• Digoxin
• Atovaquone
• Posaconazole
• Fosfomycin
• Sirolimus
• Tacrolimus
• Cyclosporine

Reglan tablets are available in the following strengths:

• 5 mg
• 10 mg

Reglan is also available as an injection, orally disintegrating tablet, and oral liquid.

Reglan should be stored at room temperature away from light and out of reach of children. Keep Reglan in its original container.

Reglan is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company ANI Pharmaceuticals.

Yes, a generic version of the Reglan brand is available.

To prevent negative withdrawal effects, your healthcare provider may slowly taper your dose of Reglan if necessary. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Reglan.

The use of metoclopramide or Reglan near the end of pregnancy may cause adverse effects on your unborn child. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Reglan can pass into the breastmilk and may cause adverse effects on your breastfeeding infant. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.