Makers of generic Reglan liable for inadequate warning labels
Makers of generic drugs who do not adequately label their products to warn consumers of possible risks are not exempt from liability, according to a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. The court ruled on a product liability lawsuit brought by Gladys Mensing, who was prescribed metoclopramide to treat diabetic gastroparesis, a debilitating condition in which the stomach empties too slowly. Following use of the medication, Mensing developed a serious movement disorder known as Tardive Dyskinesia. Research has shown that the condition can be caused by long-term use of metoclopramide. Mensing sued several makers of generic metoclopramide, known by the brand name Reglan, for not adequately warning consumers of the risk of developing the movement disorder.