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Published on: November 21, 2013
Tardive dyskinesia associated with use of metoclopramide in a child
P E Putnam1, S R Orenstein, H B Wessel
1Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, PA 15213.
Abstract:
Tardive dyskinesia is a chronic, often permanent, movement disorder that has been reported in elderly patients receiving metoclopramide. We describe an 8-year-old boy with tardive dyskinesia that developed when he received metoclopramide as part of therapy for gastroesophageal reflux and erosive esophagitis.
Insights
Tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder, can occur in children treated with metoclopramide. This case highlights the risk of this condition in pediatric patients with gastroesophageal reflux.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a recognized adverse effect of metoclopramide, typically associated with elderly populations.
- Metoclopramide is frequently prescribed for gastrointestinal motility disorders, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Observation:
- This report details an 8-year-old male patient who developed TD.
- The patient was undergoing treatment with metoclopramide for diagnosed gastroesophageal reflux and erosive esophagitis.
Findings:
- The pediatric patient exhibited symptoms consistent with tardive dyskinesia following metoclopramide administration.
- This case underscores that TD can manifest in younger individuals, challenging the perception of it being exclusively an elderly-onset disorder.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider the potential for metoclopramide-induced TD in pediatric patients, even those with short-term exposure.
- Awareness of this risk is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of movement disorders in children.
- Further research may be warranted to explore the incidence and risk factors for TD in pediatric populations receiving metoclopramide.
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