Tardive Dyskinesia - A Metoclopramide Side Effect

Tardive Dyskinesia is an irreversible neurological condition characterized by repetitive, involuntary and purposeless movements of the face and extremities. These movements most often include grimacing, tongue protrusion, lip smacking, puckering and pursing of the lips, and rapid eye blinking. Rapid, involuntary movements of the hands and feet can also occur. Tardive Dyskinesia is a common side effect of the drug Reglan (generic name Metoclopramide) when taken for more than 3 months.

Tardive Dyskinesia

Tardive Dyskineisa was first identified in the early 1960s when it was observed as a side effect experienced by 30% of patients taking antipsychotic medications. People who suffer from Tardive Dyskinesia basically lose control over the muscles in their face and mouth, as well as in their extremities. They exhibit repetitive, involuntary, purposeless movements, such as grimacing, tongue protrusion, lip smacking, puckering and pursing of the lips, and rapid eye blinking.

Current research indicates that Tardive Dyskinesia is a result of damage to the parts of the nervous system that use and process dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical produced in the brain which functions as a neurotransmitter, enabling the brain to regulate body movements, and also emotion. Long-term use of drugs that block the dopamine receptors interfere with the brain's ability to control body movements, resulting in the involuntary movements associated with Tardive Dyskinesia.

FDA Reports Link Between Tardive Dyskinesia and Reglan/Metoclopramide

Reglan, generic name Metoclopramide, causes Tardive Dyskinesia because it is a dopamine antagonist, like the antipsychotic and antidepressants first associated with Tardive Dyskinesia. Research has shown that at least 20% of the people who use of Reglan/Metoclopramide for more than three months develop Tardive Dyskinesia. Based on this research, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in February 2009 began requiring drug manufacturers to warn that Reglan/Metoclopramide should not be used for more than three months except in rare cases.

The elderly are most at risk of developing Tardive Dyskinesia from Reglan/Metoclopramide. Women are more at risk than men.