Add metoclopramide (Reglan) to the laundry list of medications with black box warnings from the FDA. Why was a black box warning added?
- Long-term metoclopramide use has been linked to tardive dyskinesia (involuntary and repetitive body movements) even after the drug is no longer being taken.
- Risk factors: Long-term or high-dose use, elderly, female gender.
- Recommended that metoclopramide treatment not exceed 3 months.
What implications does this have for our practice in the ED?
- None really.
- Just be aware of the dopamine antagonist effects (EPS - dystonic reactions) that are possible whenever you order metoclopramide in the acute setting.
- These effects can be treated effectively with an anticholinergic agent, such as diphenhydramine or benztropine.