Reglan linked to the neurological disorder Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

Reglan (metoclopramide), a prescription medication used to treat gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in children and adults has been linked with Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), a rare but life threatening condition.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome is a potentially life threatening idiosyncratic reaction to a neuroleptic medication characterized by fever, muscular rigidity, altered mental status and autonomic dysfunction. More common in males and occurring in patients of any age, NMS can cause death through respiratory failure, cardiovascular collapse, myoglobinuric renal failure, arrhythmias or a condition called diffuse intravascular coagulation.

NMS is more likely to develop when starting the associated medication or increasing its dosage. While the onset can be within hours, it typically takes 4-14 days after starting the medication for symptoms to occur. NMS can, however, occur at any time during use of the offending drug - even years into therapy.