DRUG INDEX
GENERIC NAME: cyclobenzaprine BRAND NAME: Flexeril
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant. Specifically, cyclobenzaprine relieves muscle spasm when the spasm is due to local problems (that is, problems originating 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.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 10mg.
STORAGE: Tablets should be stored between 5° and 30° C (41° and 86°F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Cyclobenzaprine is used together with rest and physical therapy for short-term relief of painful muscle conditions. It is only for short-term use, up to 2 to 3 weeks.
DOSING: Cyclobenzaprine is most often prescribed three times daily but should be taken according to the physician's recommendations.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Cyclobenzaprine is chemically related to the tricyclic class of antidepressants (e.g. amitriptyline , Elavil; nortriptyline , Pamelor). As such, it should not be taken with or within two weeks of any monoamine oxidase 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. Additionally, cyclobenzaprine interacts with other medications and drugs that slow the brain's processes, such as alcohol, barbiturates, benzodiazepines (e.g. lorazepam , Ativan), and narcotics.
PREGNANCY: 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.
NURSING MOTHERS: 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 lactating women.
SIDE EFFECTS: Among the most common side effects of cyclobenzaprine are drowsiness (which occurs in between 1 in 6 and 1 in 3 persons), dry mouth (between 1 in 14 and 1 in 4), and dizziness (between 1 in 30 and 1 in 9). Other reported side effects, for which the incidence is less than 1 in 30, include nausea, tiredness, constipation , blurred vision, unpleasant taste, nervousness, confusion, and abdominal pain or discomfort.
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