Generic Name: cyclobenzaprine
Brand Names: Flexeril, Amrix, Fexmid
Drug Class: Skeletal Muscle Relaxants
What is cyclobenzaprine, and what is it used for?
Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant. Cyclobenzaprine relieves muscle spasms when the spasm is due to local problems, that is, in the muscle itself and not in the nerves controlling the muscles. Cyclobenzaprine has no effect on muscle function. Cyclobenzaprine seems to accomplish its beneficial effect through a complex mechanism within the nervous system, probably in the brainstem.
Cyclobenzaprine is used with rest and physical therapy for short-term relief of muscle spasms associated with acute painful muscle and skeletal conditions. It is only for short-term use, up to two or three weeks.
What are the side effects of cyclobenzaprine?
The most common side effects of cyclobenzaprine include:
Other reported side effects include:
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Blurred vision,
- Unpleasant taste
- Nervousness
- Confusion
- Acid reflux
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
Possible serious side effects include:
- Seizures
- Abnormal heart beats
- Stroke
- Heart attacks
- Heat stroke
Abrupt cessation after prolonged therapy may cause withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and weakness.
What is the dosage for cyclobenzaprine?
- The recommended dose of cyclobenzaprine dose is 5 or 10 mg three times daily using immediate release tablets or 15 or 30 mg once daily using extended release tablets.
Which drugs interact with cyclobenzaprine?
- Cyclobenzaprine is chemically related to the tricyclic class of antidepressants, for example, amitriptyline (Elavil, Endep), nortriptyline Pamelor). As such, it should not be taken with or within two weeks of any monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor, for example, isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate), and procarbazine (Matulane). High fever, convulsions, and even death can occur when these drugs are used together.
- Cyclobenzaprine interacts with other medications and drugs that slow the brain's processes, such as
- alcohol,
- barbiturates,
- benzodiazepines, for example, diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and
- narcotics.
SLIDESHOW
Rheumatoid Arthritis Exercises: Joint-Friendly Workouts See SlideshowPregnancy and breastfeeding
- There are no adequate studies of cyclobenzaprine in pregnant women. However, studies in animals suggest no important effects on the fetus. Cyclobenzaprine therefore can be used in pregnancy if the physician feels that it is necessary.
- It is not known whether cyclobenzaprine is secreted in milk. However, since it is related to the tricyclic antidepressants, some of which are excreted in breast milk, caution is advised in using this medication in women who are breastfeeding.
What else should I know about cyclobenzaprine?
Cyclobenzaprine:
- Is available in generic form. You need a prescription for this drug.
- Is available as Tablets: 5 and 10 mg. and Capsules (Extended Release): 15 and 30 mg.
- Tablets should be stored between 15 C and 30 C (59 F and 86 F).
- Was approved by the FDA in August 1977
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Summary
Cyclobenzaprine is a drug prescribed for the short-term relief of muscle spasms associated with acute painful muscle and skeletal conditions. Cyclobenzaprine is used with rest and physical therapy for short-term relief of muscle spasms associated with acute painful muscle and skeletal conditions. It is only for short-term use, up to two or three weeks. Common side effects include dry mouth, fatigue, and headaches. Possible serious side effects include stroke, heart attacks, and heat stroke. Consult your doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding.
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SciaticaSciatica, caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve, typically radiates from the low back to behind the thigh to below the knee. Disc herniation is usually the cause of sciatica. Medication to alleviate pain, physical therapy, and bed rest are treatments for sciatica.
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Muscle SpasmsMuscle spasms are involuntary muscle contractions that come on suddenly and are usually quite painful. Dehydration, doing strenuous exercise in a hot environment, prolonged muscle use, and certain diseases of the nervous system may cause muscle spasms. Gently stretching the muscle usually resolves a muscle spasm.
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Foot PainFoot pain may be caused by many different diseases, deformities, biomechanical conditions, improper footwear, or injuries. Pain and tenderness may be accompanied by joint looseness, swelling, weakness, discoloration, and loss of function.
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Lower Back PainThere are many causes of lower back pain. Common causes of lower back pain (lumbar spine pain) include lumbar strain, nerve irritation, lumbar radiculopathy, bony encroachment, and conditions of the bone and joints.
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Neck and Shoulder PainShoulder and neck pain may be caused by bursitis, a pinched nerve, whiplash, tendinitis, a herniated disc, or a rotator cuff injury. Symptoms may include weakness, numbness, coolness, color changes, swelling, and deformity.
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Treatment & Diagnosis
Medications & Supplements
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
REFERENCE:
FDA Prescribing Information