Talk to a Suffolk County, NY dangerous drug attorney to learn if the injuries you sustained after taking Reglan qualify to file a dangerous drug claim. An attorney can investigate the matter further by examining pertinent documentation and records to determine if you may have a legitimate claim.
Dangerous Side Effects of Reglan
Reglan is a medication for use on a short-term basis (no more than 12 weeks in most cases) to treat gastrointestinal disorders such as diabetic gastroparesis, which may delay the emptying of food in the stomach. It can be prescribed for gastroesophageal reflux disease. Although Reglan is approved for these uses, some doctors have also prescribed it off-label to treat other conditions like vascular headaches.
One adverse reaction that has been experienced by patients who take Reglan is a condition called tardive dyskinesia. This affects the patient’s neurological system and can cause involuntary, repetitive movements.
Some of the common symptoms of tardive dyskinesia include:
- facial grimacing;
- protruding tongue;
- rapid eye blinking;
- rapid movements of arms and legs;
- unusual movements of the fingers;
- lip smacking; and
- pursing/puckering of lips.
Other less common side effects associated with Reglan include:
- jaundice;
- high fever;
- confusion;
- stiff muscles;
- convulsions;
- trouble breathing;
- irregular heartbeat;
- swelling in lower extremities;
- difficulty walking/balancing;
- depression; and
- irritability.
Other side effects may also be present. As a patient, be proactive in protecting yourself from medication errors. Ask your doctor about any potential side effects of the drug, and go over any medications you are taking, as other drugs may interact with Reglan. Physicians should also monitor patients throughout use.
When this drug is used for longer than 12 weeks or if it is taken in higher than recommended doses, it may increase the chance of developing tardive dyskinesia. The risk also appears to be elevated in the elderly and in women. Diabetics may also be at higher risk. These factors should be discussed with the physician prior to taking the medication.
What should I do if Reglan results in injury or death?
The first thing you should do is seek emergency medical attention if you experience signs of allergic reaction, such as:
- difficulty breathing;
- swelling in the face, throat, lips, tongue; and
- hives.
Signs of tardive dyskinesia should be reported immediately. Other side effects should be reported to your doctor right away.
Contact an attorney who handles claims related to dangerous drugs. A lawyer can help determine if negligence caused your injuries, and whether a legitimate case of medical malpractice may be present. To prove negligence, several factors must be examined. In some cases the pharmaceutical company may be held liable for injuries or death.
However, a doctor may be held liable for injuries from a dangerous drug if he or she:
- prescribed the drug incorrectly;
- failed to warn of dangerous side effects; or
- didn’t recognize and treat complications stemming from it.
You could be eligible to receive compensation for the medical costs you have incurred, including hospitalization and other expenses. Income from time missed from work may be recoverable in addition to potential earnings if you are now disabled. Other damages you could be entitled to include pain and suffering, emotional distress, wrongful death and more.
Contacting a Suffolk County, NY Dangerous Drug Attorney
You have the right to seek compensation if another individual’s negligence leads to serious injuries or death. Learn about protecting your rights and your claim by contacting a Suffolk County, NY dangerous drug attorney at Gacovino, Lake & Associates.
We can help you sort through the complexities surrounding your case and fight aggressively for the compensation to which you may be entitled. With a limited time to file your claim, don’t delay. For help, call us today at 1-800-246-4878.
