Reglan Causes Depression
Reglan, a drug most commonly prescribed for the treatment of acid reflux, has long been associated with a Parkinson’s-like condition called tardive dyskinesia. However, what is not so commonly known is that the drug also has been linked to depression.
Reglan, it seems, is contraindicated in people using the drug who have a history of depression. Specifically, the drug comes with a warning which reads: “Metoclopramide can cause depression. Some cases are mild, while others are quite severe and may involve suicidal thinking or behavior. Make sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have depression or even a history of depression. If you start to notice any depression symptoms while taking metoclopramide, contact your healthcare provider right away.”
With Reglan’s side effects getting more attention that the drug’s benefits these days, it can be easy to overlook some of its lesser-known side effects as well, including neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), akathisia, ocular deviation and blepharospasm. Metoclopramide also comes with a warning that it has the potential to make some conditions worse, such as high blood pressure, congestive heart failure and cirrhosis.
With so many warnings posted against Reglan, it is a wonder why patients don’t simply opt to take something else for their acid reflux symptoms. Over-the-counter medication like Rolaids or TUMS are a far safer alternative. However, for the new mothers who are consideration using Reglan for its off-label use of increasing milk production, Reglan can feel like the only option. One thing that should be noted if you plan on taking Reglan despite the warnings posted against it about the risks of developing conditions like those mentioned here: Be sure to do so only under the supervision of a doctor and for no longer than the FDA’s warning period (no more than 12 weeks). Doing this may help prevent you from developing tardive dyskinesia as well as the other symptoms mentioned.
