GERD And Reglan Tardive Dyskinesia Problems

Tardive Dyskinesia is a condition characterized by involuntary, repetitive movement. As a side effect from the long –term use of acid reflux medications, such as Reglan Tardive Dyskinesia may initially prove difficult to diagnose.

The symptoms often begin subtly. In fact, other people may notice the behaviors before the patient. The person may have an awkward smile or grimace that keeps coming and going. He may tap his fingers or look like he’s playing imaginary piano. He may shift his legs. These movements may be normal fidgeting, but if they are occurring without purpose or volition, they may be signs of Tardive Dyskinesia.

If a person is noticing these or more obvious movements, he should consult with his doctor. If the patient has taken a medication such as Reglan, or its generic version, metoclopramide, the doctor may conduct a brief exam to see if the patient falls within the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS).

Using the AIMS, the doctor will look at seven areas of the patient’s body to determine if the Reglan side effect Tardive Dyskinesia may be causing the repetitive movements.

1.The face is examined to see if the patient frowns, grimaces, blinks, or has repetitive movement in the forehead, cheek and eyebrow area.

2.The area around the mouth is examined for sucking movements or puckering and smacking.

3.The jaw is examined for involuntary biting, chewing or clenching.

4.The tongue is examined for movement in and out of the mouth. Ulcers or sores on the tongue may also indicate persistent movement.

5.The exam now looks at the extremities. Upper extremities, including fingers, hands, arms and wrists are considered for irregular movement.

6.Legs and feet, including knees, ankles and toes are examined for squirming, tapping and knee movement.

7.The neck, shoulders and hips are examined for rocking or twisting.

In each area, the doctor will make a determination of the severity of any movement. This includes the frequency and degree of the movement. On a scale of 1 - 4, the doctor will decide if there was no movement (0), minimal, which could still be normal (1), mild (2), moderate (3) or severe (4).

In addition to using the scale to diagnose Tardive Dyskinesia, the AIMS is also useful for follow up evaluations.

If you have been diagnosed with Reglan Tardive Dyskinesia after using this drug, please contact an attorney to discuss your legal options. Many patients are unaware that they may have important legal rights and if a Reglan lawsuit is not filed before certain statute of limitations expire you may lose the right to obtain compensation.

About the Author:

John Davidson is the author of this article on Reglan lawsuit settlements. Find more information about Reglan lawsuit here.