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 to reduce tonic somatic motor activity, influencing both gamma and alpha motor neurons. Clinical studies demonstrate that Flexeril helps relieve muscle spasm local discomfort without interfering with muscle function, thereby facilitating restoration of normal muscle function and mobility. Its efficacy makes it a valuable component in comprehensive treatment plans for acute musculoskeletal pain.
Features
- Contains cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride as the active ingredient
- Available in 5 mg and 10 mg tablet strengths
- Typically prescribed for short-term use (up to 2-3 weeks)
- Rapid onset of action, with effects typically noticed within one hour
- Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality standards
- Requires prescription in most jurisdictions
Benefits
- Provides rapid relief from acute muscle spasms and associated pain
- Helps restore normal range of motion and functional mobility
- Reduces muscle stiffness and discomfort
- Facilitates participation in physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Improves sleep quality by reducing nighttime muscle spasms
- Complements other pain management strategies effectively
Common use
Flexeril is primarily prescribed for the management of muscle spasm associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions. This includes but is not limited to muscle strains, sprains, and injuries resulting from trauma, overexertion, or sudden movements. It is commonly used in cases of acute lower back pain with muscle spasm, whiplash injuries, and post-surgical muscle spasm. The medication is typically employed during the acute phase of musculoskeletal injury when muscle spasm significantly contributes to pain and functional limitation. Clinical evidence supports its use as an adjunct to rest, physical therapy, and other appropriate measures for optimal recovery outcomes.
Dosage and direction
The recommended dosage of Flexeril for most adults is 5 mg three times daily. Based on individual patient response and tolerance, the dosage may be increased to 10 mg three times daily. The medication should be taken with a full glass of water and may be administered with or without food, though taking with food may reduce potential gastrointestinal discomfort. The total daily dosage should not exceed 60 mg (six 10 mg tablets) divided into three doses. Treatment duration is generally limited 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. Elderly patients and those with hepatic impairment may require dosage adjustment, typically starting with 5 mg tablets and careful monitoring.
Precautions
Patients should be advised that Flexeril may impair mental and/or physical abilities required for performance of hazardous tasks, such as operating machinery or driving a motor vehicle. The sedative effects of Flexeril may be additive with those of alcohol, barbiturates, and other CNS depressants. Use with caution in patients with a history of urinary retention, angle-closure glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, and in patients taking anticholinergic medications. Flexeril should be used with caution in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment and is not recommended in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use may produce withdrawal symptoms including nausea, headache, and malaise, though this is uncommon with short-term use.
Contraindications
Flexeril is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to any component of the formulation. Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors or within 14 days after their discontinuation is contraindicated due to the risk of hyperpyretic crisis, severe convulsions, and deaths. It is contraindicated during the acute recovery phase of myocardial infarction and in patients with arrhythmias, heart block or conduction disturbances, or congestive heart failure. Flexeril is contraindicated in patients with hyperthyroidism. The medication should not be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
Possible side effect
The most common adverse reactions include drowsiness (39%), dry mouth (27%), and dizziness (11%). Other frequently reported side effects include fatigue, nausea, constipation, dyspepsia, and unpleasant taste. Less common side effects may include nervousness, confusion, headache, syncope, tachycardia, blurred vision, and urinary retention. These side effects are generally dose-related and may diminish with continued therapy or dosage reduction. Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, fainting, mental/mood changes, and difficulty urinating. Allergic reactions, though rare, may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
Drug interaction
Flexeril may have additive effects when used with other CNS depressants including alcohol, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, opioids, and sedating antihistamines. Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors is contraindicated. Flexeril may enhance the effects of anticholinergic drugs including atropine and scopolamine. Tricyclic antidepressants may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when used with Flexeril. The medication may potentiate the effects of norepinephrine and other sympathomimetics. Use with tramadol may increase seizure risk. Flexeril may interact with certain antihypertensive medications and may affect blood glucose control in diabetic patients.
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, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed one. If multiple doses are missed or uncertainty exists about proper dosing, patients should consult their healthcare provider for guidance. Maintaining a consistent dosing schedule is important for optimal therapeutic effect, but occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly impact overall treatment efficacy given the medication’s pharmacokinetic profile.
Overdose
Flexeril overdose may manifest as severe drowsiness, tachycardia, tremor, agitation, confusion, hallucinations, and cardiac arrhythmias. Other symptoms may include vomiting, hypothermia or hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, and seizures. Severe overdose may lead to coma, cardiac arrest, and death. Management of overdose should include gastric lavage or activated charcoal if presentation is early, along with appropriate supportive measures including cardiac monitoring and treatment of arrhythmias. Physostigmine may be considered for life-threatening symptoms unresponsive to conventional therapy. Dialysis is unlikely to be beneficial due to Flexeril’s high protein binding and extensive tissue distribution. Any suspected overdose requires immediate medical attention.
Storage
Flexeril tablets should be stored 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). The medication should be kept in its original container, tightly closed, and protected from light and moisture. Tablets should be kept out of reach of children and pets. Unused medication should be properly disposed of according to local regulations or through drug take-back programs. The medication should not be flushed down the toilet or poured into drains unless specifically instructed to do so. Patients should check expiration dates and never use medication beyond its expiration date.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Flexeril is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual patient needs may vary, and only a healthcare provider can determine the appropriate treatment based on specific medical conditions, other medications being taken, and overall health status. Patients should not change their dosage or discontinue medication without consulting their healthcare provider. The information provided here is not exhaustive, and patients should refer to the official prescribing information for complete details.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate that Flexeril provides significant relief from muscle spasm and associated pain compared to placebo. In multiple randomized controlled trials, patients receiving cyclobenzaprine showed greater improvement in global physician and patient assessments. Many patients report rapid relief of muscle spasm within the first 24-48 hours of treatment. Healthcare professionals note that Flexeril is particularly effective when initiated early in the course of acute musculoskeletal injury. Some patients report sedation as a limiting factor, though this often diminishes with continued use. The short-term nature of therapy is generally viewed positively by both patients and providers. Overall, Flexeril remains a well-established and frequently prescribed option for acute muscle spasm management.