The Web Health

Subscribe

Metaxalone

Generic name: Metaxalone [ME-TAX-alone]
Brand name: Skelaxin
Form of dosage: oral tablet (400mg; 800mg)
Drug class: skeletal muscle relaxants

What is Metaxalone?

Metaxalone works as a muscle relaxant. Blocks nerve impulses in the brain which cause discomfort.Metaxalone can be used in conjunction with physical therapy and rest to treat conditions affecting the skeletal muscles, such as injury or pain. Metaxalone can be used in other ways not mentioned in the medication guide.

Side effects of Metaxalone

If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, hives or swelling on lips, face, throat or tongue then an allergy could be to blame.

Metaxalone can cause severe side effects. If you experience:

  • Weak or shallow breathing
  • A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
  • If you notice a pale, yellow, or dark urine color, a fever, or if you feel confused or weak, this is advisable.
  • Jaundice (yellowing skin or eyes) is a common symptom of upper stomach pain.

Metaxalone can cause the following side effects:

  • Dizziness, drowsiness;
  • Nausea, vomiting, upset stomach;
  • Headache;
  • Feeling nervous or irritable

There may be other side effects. For medical advice regarding side effects, call your physician directly. Alternatively, report side effects by calling the FDA directly at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Similar/related drugs

cyclobenzaprine, Baclofen, tizanidine, diazepam, methocarbamol, and Soma

Warnings

Metaxalone should be avoided if you suffer from anemia, severe liver or kidney disease, or

Before you take this drug

If you're allergic to metaxalone or have any of the following:

  • Anemia is a condition in which the red blood cell count is low.
  • Severe kidney disease
  • Severe liver disease

Tell your doctor about any liver or kidney problems you may have. Metaxalone is known to cause harm to an unborn child. Inform your doctor of any pregnancy or plans to get pregnant. Metaxalone is unknown to pass into breast milk or harm nursing babies. This medicine should not be taken while breastfeeding. Metaxalone should not be used by children under 12 years of age.

How to take Metaxalone?

Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts, nor for longer than recommended on the label. Take this medication only as prescribed. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or take for longer than intended.Metaxalone can produce unusual medical test results. Inform any physician who treats you about your use of metaxalone.Metaxalone may be part of an overall treatment plan that includes rest, physical therapies, and other measures to relieve pain. Please follow your doctor’s advice.Keep away from heat and moisture at room temperature.

Details on dosage

Adult dose for muscle spasms:
Orally, 800 mg 3–4 times per day
The usual pediatric dose for muscle spasms:
Twelve years of age or older
Orally, 800 mg 3–4 times per day

What happens if I miss the dose?

As soon as possible, take the missed dose. If your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose. You should not take more medicine to compensate for a missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. A metaxalone overdose can prove fatal.

What should be avoided?

Alcohol and metaxalone can cause dangerous side effects, or even death. Be sure to check the labels of your foods and medicines for alcohol.Metaxalone can impair thinking and reactions. You should be careful when you are driving or doing anything else that involves being alert.Older adults may experience more dizziness and drowsiness.

Interaction with other drug

Metaxolone can have dangerous side effects when taken with drugs such as sleeping pills, pain relievers, muscle relaxers, antidepressants, and medicines for depression, anxiety, or seizures.Metaxalone may also interact with other drugs, such as prescription medicines, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines that you are currently taking and those that you plan to start using.