Metoclopramide-induced tardive dyskinesia in an infant

Nicte I Mejia1, Joseph Jankovic

  • 1Parkinson's Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic, Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.

Insights

A 1-year-old girl developed orofacial-lingual stereotypy after metoclopramide treatment, representing the first infant tardive dyskinesia case. The condition persisted for months after discontinuing the medication.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux is common in infants.
  • Metoclopramide is a medication sometimes used to treat gastroesophageal reflux.
  • Tardive dyskinesia is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements.

Observation:

  • A 2-month-old infant developed orofacial-lingual stereotypy after a 17-day course of metoclopramide.
  • The stereotypy was documented via video and persisted for at least 9 months after metoclopramide discontinuation.

Findings:

  • This case represents the first documented instance of tardive dyskinesia in an infant.
  • The findings suggest a potential link between metoclopramide use and the development of tardive dyskinesia in infants.
  • A review of previous literature on tardive dyskinesia in children is included.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering potential neurological side effects of medications in infants.
  • Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects and risk factors for tardive dyskinesia in pediatric populations.
  • Clinicians should be vigilant in monitoring for movement disorders in infants exposed to metoclopramide.

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