Flexeril: Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, and some common FAQs

The goals of treatment include managing muscle pain and improving functional status so the patient can return to work or resume previous activities. It is structurally similar to the tricyclic antidepressants and adverse effects similar to those seen with the tricyclic antidepressants are therefore to be expected. If cyclobenzaprine is beingmisused, however, the person may continue to take the medication for much longer and may increase their dose too high, which could lead to dangerous side effects and overdose.

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Mixing the drug with other substances, however, has shown to cause accidents leading to death. How cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) works is not well understood, but it helps alleviate stiffness, pain, and discomfort due to sprains, strains, or injuries to muscles. It is also sometimes prescribed off-label to treat fibromyalgia pain. It’s important to thoroughly inform your doctor about all of your medical conditions because muscle relaxants might not be suitable for certain diseases and conditions. You should discuss the treatment options with your doctor.

Skeletal muscle relaxants are widely used in treating musculoskeletal conditions. However, evidence of their effectiveness consists mainly of studies with poor methodologic design. In addition, these drugs have not been proven to be superior to acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for low back pain. Comparison studies have not shown one skeletal muscle relaxant to be superior to another. Cyclobenzaprine is the most heavily studied and has been shown to be effective for various musculoskeletal conditions. The sedative properties of tizanidine and cyclobenzaprine may benefit patients with insomnia caused by severe muscle spasms.

Interactions

Other potential effects of overdosage include any of the symptoms listed under ADVERSE REACTIONS. It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Our Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) Side Effects Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information on the potential side effects when taking this medication. Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness.

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The extended-release formulation should be administered at the same time each day. The capsule may be swallowed whole, but its contents also may be sprinkled onto a tablespoon zoloft and flexeril of applesauce for immediate consumption without chewing the granules. The patient should rinse their mouth to ensure that they have swallowed all the contents.

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)?

Cyclobenzaprine may enhance the effects of other central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol, barbiturates, benzodiazepines and narcotics. According to the DEA, abusers often combine cyclobenzaprine with these depressants to produce or enhance psychoactive effects. Though it is not a controlled substance, the DEA has recorded anecdotal reports of use to induce euphoria and relaxation. Cyclobenzaprine is a skeletal muscle relaxant that works by increasing the release of the chemical norepinephrine from central nervous structures in the brain, Patel said.

• However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects.
• This article is for informational purposes only, and is not meant to offer medical advice.
• Extreme stress can cause increased muscle tension and worsen your current pain or discomfort.
• Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how cyclobenzaprine will affect you.
• It’s also not recommended that you take this muscle relaxer for more than 3 weeks.

If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional. People might also use Flexeril as a way to come down from Stimulant drugs, such as Cocaine or Adderall. When people addicted to Flexeril attempt to stop taking it or reduce their doses they may start to experience withdrawal symptoms, although these are typically not severe. Flexeril withdrawal symptoms can include headache, nausea, fatigue, and cravings for the drug.

Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Flexeril is usually taken once daily for only 2 or 3 weeks. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. The abrupt termination of prolonged use can also cause side effects, including nausea, headache and malaise. However, it is important to note that these withdrawal effects are not indicative of addiction.

Studies show that increased exposure to natural light can also improve sleep. Cyclobenzaprine comes in both short-acting tablets and long-acting capsules. Your doctor may prescribe you 5 mg, 7.5 mg, or 10 mg depending on the reason, your medical history, and other factors like age, weight, and gender. In this article, we’ll address all these questions and more so you can make an informed decision about how and when to take cyclobenzaprine for pain or to improve sleep quality.

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

Some people prefer Fexmid and Amrix over Robaxin because it is dosed once a day rather than 3 to 4 times a day. On the other hand, they can cause more adverse effects such as dry mouth and drowsiness. Professionals generally consider Flexeril to be nonaddictive; however, there is evidence that Flexeril addiction is possible. Flexeril depresses the central nervous system, an effect some find desirable, which can lead to misuse. An individual might abuse Flexeril in order to feel relaxed, mildly euphoric, or sedated.