Drug Information
Flexeril is a brand name for Cyclobenzaprine. Cyclobenzaprine
is a muscle relaxer that works in the central nervous system
by altering the signals from the brain that cause muscles to
tighten. It is marketed as Apo-Cyclobenzaprine (10 mg tablets)
Flexeril (5 and 10 mg tablets), and also as Fexmid (7.5 mg tablet).
Both Flexeril and Fexmid are available in generic form. Once-a-day
extended-release formulation Amrix was approved by the U.S.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2007 and is available
in 15- and 30-mg capsules.
Drug Uses
Flexeril is a muscle relaxant, used to treat the pain and stiffness
of muscle injuries, including strains, sprains and muscle spasms.
The active ingredient in Flexeril is cyclobenzaprine.
How Taken
Flexeril comes in 10 mg tablets, and the normal dose in adults
is one 10 mg tablet three times daily. You should not exceed
a total dosage of 60 mg of Flexeril per day. It might be taken
with food if stomach upset occurs. Take Flexeril as directed.
Do not increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed.
Warnings/Precautions
Flexeril may not be suitable for all individuals. If you have
had any of the following conditions in the past, or are being
treated for them now, please inform your doctor. In some cases
side effects may be minimized by following your doctor\'s advice,
but you may be advised not to take Flexeril. Before taking this
drug, tell your doctor if you have: glaucoma, an overactive
thyroid gland, heart disease, difficulty urinating or any allergies.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding before
taking this drug.
Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if
it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and
continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double
dose to make up for a missed one.
Possible Side Effects
May cause stomach upset, heartburn, constipation, headache,
dizziness or drowsiness or dry mouth the first few days as your
body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or
become severe, notify your doctor. Inform your doctor if you
develop: muscle stiffness, skin rash, itching, rapid heart rate,
swelling of the face, difficulty urinating. When rising quickly
from a sitting or lying position, dizziness or lightheadedness
may occur. Change positions slowly and use caution on stairs.
Avoid activities requiring alertness if dizziness or drowsiness
occurs. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact
your doctor or pharmacist.
Storage
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C
(59-86°F) and out of reach of children.
Overdose
The following symptoms indicate an overdose, get medical help
immediately: difficulty breathing, extreme nervousness or restlessness,
flushed skin, hallucination, racing or irregular heartbeat,
seizure, shortness of breath, tiredness (extreme), unstable
temperature, unusual muscle stiffness, vomiting (in combination
with these other symptoms).
More Information
Flexeril may enhance the effects of alcohol, barbiturates, and
other CNS depressants.
Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information purposes only,
it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions,
drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication.
This is only general information, and should not be relied on
for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific
instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility
for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or
any consequences arising from the use of this information, including
damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however
such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed
or implied, is made in regards to this information. |
