Reglan again is making the news for causing yet another adverse side effect. This time it is restless leg syndrome which is causing lawsuits to be filed against the makers of the acid reflux medication.
Restless leg syndrome and akathisia are some of the newest conditions that have been associated with Reglan use. Restless leg syndrome is pretty much what it sounds like. It is characterized by a patient’s inability to stay still. Sufferers often find themselves experiencing sensations all over their legs such as creeping, aching, pulling, searing, tingling, bubbling or crawling. The only way that people can stop those weird feelings in their legs is by moving their legs around or walking. Reglan-induced akathisia causes sufferers to walk in place, shift their weight from one foot to another, or making peddling movements when they are sitting or lying down. People suffering from akathisia also have a hard time going to sleep. So far there isn’t a cure for akathisia.
While the most common side effects linked with prolonged Reglan use are tardive dyskinesia, ocular deviation, NMS and secondary Parkinson’s disease, lawsuits are expected to be filed that are based on restless leg syndrome and akathisia, too. The black box warning that was imposed by the FDA in 2009 doesn’t mention restless leg syndrome since the drug was most popular for causing TD at the time. However, with all of the new side effects that have been added to the list, it is just a matter of time before the FDA starts adding more threats to the list with Reglan.
If you have experienced the effects of restless leg syndrome or akathisia after prolonged (more than 12 weeks) use of Reglan, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. You should contact your doctor immediately to see if your condition is Reglan-induced, and then speak to a lawyer.
