Definitely the theme of this past week, milk supply problems were almost all I heard about--from 75 percent of my support group to a signficant amount of my private clients. Don't know what was in the air, but regardless, it had to be managed. What to do to increase supply? For the majority, aside from increasing stimulation, we talk about going the herbal route; for a smattering, we chat about Domperidone. For NONE do I discuss Reglan.
Reglan typically is used to treat heartburn/GERD as well as nausea and vomiting; off-label, it is prescribed for women to stimulate lactation or to treat migraine headaches, but it is definitely not as benign as Domperidone, which carries with it virtually NO side effects. It has long been known that it can cause depression in mothers who are already susceptible.
And now I have yet another reason...Long-term use of Reglan may cause Tardive Dyskinesia, which is a movement disorder caused by long-term use of particular medications. Symptoms are similar to those of Parkinson's Disease or Tourette's Syndrome, so this may often go undiagnosed.
With that said, if you are having milk supply issues, be sure to see a lactation consultant ASAP! The longer you wait, the more intense the process to get your supply back to where it should be.
