The Web Health

Flexeril

Generic name: Cyclobenzaprine [sye-kloe-BEN-za-preen]
Names of brands: Amrix, Fexmid, and Flexeril
Drug class: Skeletal muscle relaxants

There is no evidence that the Flexeril brand name has been taken off the market in the U.S. If the generic versions of this drug are approved by the FDA, there may be alternatives that are generic.

What is Flexeril?

Flexeril acts as a muscle relaxant. It works by preventing nerve impulses (or sensations of pain) from going to the brain. Flexeril is prescribed in conjunction with physical therapy and rest to treat muscles in the skeletal system for injuries, pain, or spasms. Flexeril is also used for reasons not mentioned in this guideline.

Warnings

You shouldn't make use of Flexeril in the event that you suffer from a thyroid condition, a heart block, congestive heart

disease, an irregular heartbeat, or if you recently suffered a coronary heart attack. Don't use cyclobenzaprine if you've taken an MAO inhibitor within the last 14 days, like linezolid, isocarboxazid, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine.

Before taking this drug 

It is not recommended to take Flexeril in the event that you are allergic to cyclobenzaprine or you are:

  • A Thyroid disorder

  • Heart block, heart rhythm disorder, congestive heart failure, or

  • If you've had an attack on your heart.

Flexeril is not allowed for use by anyone less than 15 years old. Do not take Flexeril if you've previously used an MAO inhibitor within the last 14 days. A risky drug interaction may occur. MAO inhibitors are isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, rasagiline, and tranylcypromine.

Certain medications can be incompatible with cyclobenzaprine, causing an extremely serious condition known as serotonin syndrome. Make sure to inform your doctor whether you are also taking medications that are stimulants, opioids, herbal products, or medications to treat mental illness, depression, or Parkinson's disease. severe infections, headaches, or for the prevention of vomiting and nausea. Consult your physician before making any changes to how or when you take your medication.

To ensure that Flexeril is appropriate for you, ask your doctor if you've ever experienced:

  • Liver disease;

  • Glaucoma;

  • Prostate enlargement or

  • Urination problems.

It isn't known if cyclobenzaprine could harm an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are expecting or planning to be pregnant. It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking this medication. Talk to your doctor about any risks.

How to take Flexeril?

Flexeril is generally consumed once a day for two or three weeks. Follow the instructions on the label of your prescription and study the entire medication guide or instruction sheet. Your doctor may alter your dosage. Use the medicine every day. Consult your physician if your symptoms don't improve after 3 weeks or if they get worse. Maintain at room temperature, free of heat, moisture, and light.

What happens If I miss the dose?

You should take the medication as quickly as you can. However, avoid your missed dose if it's close to the time of the next dose. Don't take two doses at once.

What Happens If I Overdose?

For medical emergencies, seek emergency treatment or contact the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222. A cyclobenzaprine overdose could be fatal. Overdose symptoms can include severe sleepiness, vomiting, fast heartbeats, tremors, anxiety, or hallucinations.

Avoid this

Avoid driving and other hazardous activities until you are aware of how cyclobenzaprine affects your body. The way you react could be impaired. Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects may be experienced.

Side effects of Flexeril

Get immediate medical attention. If you are experiencing symptoms of an allergy reaction to Flexeril, such as hives, breathing difficulties, and swelling of your lips, face, and tongue,

Stop taking Flexeril and consult your physician immediately if you suffer from:

  • Irregular or rapid heartbeats;

  • Chest discomfort or pressure; pain radiating to your shoulder or jaw; pain in your shoulder or jaw;

  • A sudden weakness or numbness (especially in one part or the back) and slurred speech. problems with balance.

Get medical attention now if you are experiencing symptoms of serotonin syndrome like

agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating and shivering, rapid heart rate, stiffness of muscles, or twitching. Also, you may experience a lack of coordination, sickness, vomiting, or diarrhoea.

The risk of serious side effects is higher in older adults.

Common Flexeril side effects could include:

  • Drowsiness, tiredness;

  • Headache, 

  • Dizziness;

  • Dry mouth 

  • Upset stomach, 

  • Nausea,  

  • Constipation.

This is not a comprehensive list of possible side effects, and other side effects could occur. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical effects. You can report symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Interaction with Other Drugs

Utilising Flexeril together with other medications that cause you to become drowsy could increase the severity of this effect. Talk to your doctor prior to using an opioid drug, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medication to treat anxiety as well as seizures.

Inform your doctor about all other medicines you take, particularly:

  • Bupropion (Zyban, used for smoking cessation);

  • Meperidine;

  • Tramadol;

  • Verapamil;

  • Narcotics;

  • Cold or allergy medication that includes an antihistamine (Benadryl and others);

  • Medicine for treating Parkinson's disease

  • Medicine to treat acid in the stomach, stomach ulcers, motion sickness, or IBS;

  • Medicines to treat an overactive bladder medicine to treat an overactive bladder

  • Bronchodilator for asthma medication

This list isn't complete. Other medications can be incompatible with cyclobenzaprine, such as medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal products. Some interactions with drugs are not listed here. are included here.