Flexeril: Effective Relief for Acute Muscle Spasms
Flexeril
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Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride) is a centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant indicated as an adjunct to rest and physical therapy for the relief of muscle spasm associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions. It works by acting primarily within the central nervous system at the brainstem level, reducing tonic somatic motor activity without directly affecting skeletal muscle fibers or the neuromuscular junction. Clinical studies demonstrate that Flexeril helps improve mobility, decrease local pain, and reduce tenderness associated with acute muscle spasticity, typically providing noticeable relief within the first few days of therapy. It is important to note that Flexeril should only be used for short-term treatment (up to two or three weeks) due to insufficient evidence of effectiveness for longer periods and because muscle spasm associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions is generally of short duration.
Features
- Contains cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride as the active ingredient
- Available in 5 mg and 7.5 mg oral tablets
- Typically prescribed for 2-3 week treatment durations
- Works primarily through central nervous system action
- Rapid onset of action with noticeable effects often within days
- Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality standards
Benefits
- Provides effective relief from acute muscle spasms and associated discomfort
- Helps restore range of motion and improve mobility
- Reduces local pain and tenderness in affected muscle groups
- Works as an adjunct to physical therapy and rest
- Typically shows improvement within the first few days of treatment
- Supports the healing process by allowing muscles to relax
Common use
Flexeril is commonly prescribed for the short-term relief of muscle spasm associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions. It is typically used when rest and physical therapy alone are insufficient. Common conditions treated include muscle strains, sprains, and other traumatic injuries causing muscle spasticity. Healthcare providers may prescribe Flexeril for patients experiencing back pain with muscle spasm, neck pain with associated muscle tension, or other acute musculoskeletal issues where muscle relaxation would facilitate recovery. The medication is not indicated for the treatment of spasticity associated with cerebral or spinal cord diseases, or in children.
Dosage and direction
The recommended dosage of Flexeril for most adults is 5 mg three times daily. Depending on individual response, the dosage may be increased to 7.5 mg or 10 mg three times daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water and may be taken with or without food. The maximum recommended daily dose is 30 mg (divided into three doses). Treatment should not exceed two or three weeks due to insufficient evidence of effectiveness for longer periods and because muscle spasm associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions is generally of short duration. Elderly patients and those with hepatic impairment may require lower dosing; a 5 mg dose two or three times daily is typically recommended for these populations.
Precautions
Patients should be cautioned about engaging in activities requiring mental alertness, such as operating machinery or driving, as Flexeril may cause drowsiness. Alcohol and other CNS depressants should be avoided during treatment as they may enhance sedation. Use with caution in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment; the drug is not recommended in severe hepatic impairment. Flexeril may enhance the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants. Patients should be monitored for signs of urinary retention, especially those with conditions predisposing to this effect. The drug should be used cautiously in patients with a history of urinary retention, angle-closure glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, and in patients taking anticholinergic medications.
Contraindications
Flexeril is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride or any component of the formulation. It should not be used concomitantly with monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors or within 14 days after their discontinuation. Hyperpyretic crisis, severe convulsions, and deaths have occurred in patients receiving cyclobenzaprine in combination with MAO inhibitors. Contraindications also include recent myocardial infarction, arrhythmias including heart block or conduction disturbances, congestive heart failure, or hyperthyroidism. The drug is contraindicated in patients taking cisapride due to potential QT prolongation.
Possible side effects
The most common adverse reactions include drowsiness (39%), dry mouth (27%), and dizziness (11%). Other reported side effects may include fatigue, nausea, constipation, dyspepsia, and blurred vision. Less frequently, patients may experience nervousness, confusion, headache, tachycardia, and unpleasant taste. Rare but serious side effects include allergic reactions, seizures, serotonin syndrome (especially when combined with other serotonergic drugs), and severe skin reactions. Patients should contact their healthcare provider immediately if they experience chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, difficulty urinating, or signs of an allergic reaction.
Drug interaction
Flexeril may interact with MAO inhibitors, potentially causing serious reactions including hyperpyretic crisis and severe convulsions. It may enhance the effects of alcohol, barbiturates, and other CNS depressants. Concurrent use with anticholinergic drugs may increase anticholinergic effects. Flexeril may enhance the effects of norepinephrine and other sympathomimetics. Use with tramadol may increase seizure risk. The drug may interact with serotonergic drugs (SSRIs, SNRIs, triptans) increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome. Flexeril should be used cautiously with drugs that prolong the QT interval. Guanethidine and similar agents may have their antihypertensive effects reduced.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. If multiple doses are missed or uncertainty exists about proper dosing, patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance. Maintaining a consistent dosing schedule helps ensure optimal therapeutic effects.
Overdose
Overdose may manifest as drowsiness, tachycardia, tremor, agitation, coma, ataxia, hypertension, slurred speech, confusion, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and hallucinations. Severe overdose may lead to cardiac arrest, chest pain, cardiac arrhythmias, severe hypotension, seizures, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Management includes gastric lavage if presented early, followed by activated charcoal. Appropriate supportive measures should be instituted with close monitoring of cardiac function. Physostigmine may be considered for life-threatening symptoms unresponsive to conventional measures. Dialysis is unlikely to be beneficial due to high protein binding.
Storage
Store Flexeril tablets at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in the original container, tightly closed, and protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Proper disposal of unused medication should follow local regulations, typically through medication take-back programs or by mixing with undesirable substance and placing in sealed container in household trash.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Flexeril is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary, and not all patients will experience the same benefits or side effects. Patients should always follow their healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage, administration, and duration of treatment. This information is not exhaustive; consult the full prescribing information and discuss any questions with your healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication regimen.
Reviews
Clinical studies have demonstrated Flexeril’s effectiveness in relieving muscle spasm associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions. In controlled clinical trials, patients receiving Flexeril showed significant improvement in muscle spasm, local pain, and tenderness compared to placebo. Many healthcare providers report positive experiences with Flexeril when used appropriately for short-term management of acute muscle spasm. Patients often report improved mobility and reduced discomfort within the first few days of treatment. However, some patients experience significant drowsiness, which may limit tolerability. The medication is generally well-taken when used as directed for the recommended duration under proper medical supervision.