Reglan
Reglan is a prescription drug used to treat GERD symptoms like heartburn and other gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms. It functions by reducing the amount of stomach acid production.The two dosage forms of this medication are tablets and liquid. It is typically taken with or without food three to four times per day.
Side Effects
The following Reglan side effects are frequent:
diarrhea
nausea
vomiting
dizziness
headache
tiredness
Seizures, an irregular heartbeat, and low blood pressure are just a few of the uncommon but severe side effects. Call your doctor right away if you experience any of these side effects.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor about all the drugs you are taking, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as Reglan may interact with other medications. Without first consulting your doctor, never start or stop taking any medications.
Pregnancy and Reglan
Reglan should not be used while pregnant. This medication can harm a nursing baby because it can enter breast milk. Before taking this medication, discuss with your doctor whether you are pregnant or nursing.
Dosage
Reglan is typically started at 10-15 mg, three to four times per day. Depending on how you react to the medication, your doctor may change the dose you are given.
Overdose
Seizures, an irregular heartbeat, and low blood pressure are all potential signs of an overdose.
Pharmacokinetics
Reglan is quickly absorbed from the digestive system and reaches its peak levels in about an hour. Its half-life is three to six hours.
Reglan is broken down in the liver and eliminated through the urine.
Alternatives to Reglan
Alternative treatments for GERD and heartburn are widely available. A few of these are:
antacids
Blockers of H2
proton pump blockers
Interactions
Tell your doctor about all the drugs you are taking, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as Reglan may interact with other medications. Without first consulting your doctor, never start or stop taking any medications.
Pregnancy and Reglan
Reglan should not be used while pregnant. This medication can harm a nursing baby because it can enter breast milk. Before taking this medication, discuss with your doctor whether you are pregnant or nursing.
Research
According to research, Reglan can effectively treat GERD and heartburn. 3–4 times per day at 10-15 mg is the typical starting dose. Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue are possible side effects. Call your doctor right away if you experience any negative side effects that are severe. Before beginning Reglan, be sure to inform your doctor of all the medications you are currently taking. Reglan may interact with other medications. Because it can harm a nursing baby, this medication is not advised for use during pregnancy. Before taking this medication, discuss with your doctor whether you are pregnant or nursing.
Are H2 Blockers more effective than Reglan?
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers, and antacids were all evaluated in a systematic review for their effectiveness in treating GERD symptoms. PPIs were found to be more effective than H2 blockers or antacids. H2 blockers, however, might be a better option for treating heartburn symptoms than antacids. Talk to your doctor about the best course of action if you have heartburn or other GERD symptoms.
What are the long-term effects of taking Reglan?
When taken as prescribed, reglan is generally well tolerated. The most typical negative side effects are vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. As long as the medication is taken as prescribed, these side effects will typically go away within a few days. Seizures, an irregular heartbeat, and low blood pressure are uncommon but serious side effects that could occur. Call your doctor right away if you experience any of these side effects. Tardive dyskinesia, a severe neurological disorder characterized by uncontrollable muscle movements, has been linked to long-term Reglan use. Talk to your doctor right away if you notice any uncontrollable muscle movements while taking this medication. Older adults are more likely to develop this condition, which may be irreversible. Before beginning treatment, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using this medication with your doctor.