Flexeril: A Modern Overview Of The Muscle Relaxant
Introduction With Flexeril
What Is Flexeril?
In case you experience a muscle pull or an irritating back spasm, your doctor is likely to prescribe you Flexeril and help you with your issue. Flexeril is a brand relabel for cyclobenzaprine and it is a muscle relaxant that helps with short term pain as well as stiffness resultant from injury to muscles and muscle tissues. It helps relax the patient for some time to allow the body enough time to recuperate; though it does not solve everything on its own.
Brand Vs Generic (Cyclobenzaprine)
The brand name is famous amongst users, but they do not realize the generic form cyclobenzaprine works the same and is often more affordable. However both medications are prescribed equally and are effective.
Approval and History
The FDA approved cyclobenzaprine in 1977, since then it has gradually attaracted users owing to its effectiveness in treating acute conditions and becmoing one of the highly prescribed muscle relaxants within the states.
Medical Uses of Flexeril
Muscle Spasms
Flexeril is often prescribed to alleviate muscle spasms associated with strains, sprains and general muscle injuries. Flexeril relaxes muscles, aiding injury recovery by removing pain and considerable tension.
Short term use in Physical Therapy
Several doctors prescribe it alongside physical therapy. The use of muscle relaxants generally eases performance of painful movements.
Uses Not Listed On the Label
Some providers prescribe Flexeril to assist with sleep disorders and fibromyalgia, which has yet to be researched further.
How Flexeril Works
Mechanism of Action
Flexeril functions by suspending the transmission of pain signals to the brain. Its effects are primarily on the central nervous system rather than on the muscles directly.
Impact on the Central Nervous System
It has a sedative effect which can induce sleep in some patients. This also aids in further relaxation of the muscles.
Dosage and Administration
Common Dosages
Flexeril is most often prescribed in doses of 5 mg or 10 mg taken three times daily, though some extended-release capsules are available for once daily use.
Best Practices for Taking Flexeril
One may take the medication with food or otherwise, but try to maintain a schedule of taking it at the same time each day and avoid using alcohol or other CNS depressants during treatment.
Duration of Treatment
Flexeril is typically prescribed for up to 2 to 3 weeks at a time. Prolonged usage is not advisable due to a lack of evidence supporting efficacy exceeding this duration.
Flexeril and Other Muscle Relaxants Comparison
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Msn’s Safety Noticeable lack of information on use during pregnancy. Doctor consultation is adviced during breastfeeding.
Tizanidine vs Flexril First is commonly used for chronic conditions since its duration is shorter. The second one is used for short term injuries but provides longer duration and more sedation.
Baclofen vs Flexril First muscle relaxants for multiple sclerose. Short term injury muscle relaxers have Flexril as their choice.
Use in Children and Teens Msn’s Guide Not advised for children under 15 unless specified by physician.
Dizziness and drowsiness are common side effects for the elderly. Due to their sensitivity to falls elderly are at an increased risk.
Avoidable Risks
Heart conditions
Recent use of MAOIs
Hyperthyroidism
Flexeril should be avoided by patients having these conditions
Common Side Effects
Fatigue
Dry mouth
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Side Effect
Rash Hallucination Itching Confusion Swelling Change of mood
Caution Needed With
Flexeril has negative interactions with other muscle relaxants because of increased side effects.
Severe Side Effects
Irregular heartbeat
Increased or decreased drowsiness can be a major side effect for elderly increasing their fall risk.
Driving While On Flexeril
Even if driving on flexeril is possible, one should not attempt to do so. When driving one should operate the vehicle with the utmost caution as flexeril does impair people’s ability to drive and operate other machinery. It is important to understand the effects it has on an individual.
Interactions with Alcohol and Other Depressants
Using flexeril with alcohol and contra sedatives is hazardous and strongly advised against. When using flexeril, mixing it with alcohol increases the chances of sedation, respiratory depression, overdose and a plethora of negative effects.
Dependence and Addiction
Could Flexeril Become Habitual?
Due to its low classification as a controlled substance, flexeril is free of extensive addiction. Even with the low chances of addiction, it is important to note that with habitual use it will still pose a potential risk, especially if the goal of use is perceived as a sedative.
Signs of Misuse
In the event that someone is suspected of misusing it, the following markers should be considered:
Inflexible dosage being taken
Feeling overly calm, or euphoric ‘high’
Drug abuse: using other illicit drugs alongside to enhance the effects
Final thoughts
Just like any other medication, responsible use is highly encouraged and flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) should not be relied on solely to ease pain.
FAQs
What is the effectiveness timeframe of Flexeril?
It’s noted that its effectiveness is usually felt between 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion, and peaking effects are noted around 4 hours.
Can anxiety or sleep be controlled by Flexeril?
Flexeril does not hold official approval as relief for anxiety and might only help with sleep due to its sedative action, which under no circumstances should be exploited without an approval from a doctor.
What are the side effects of exceeding the recommended dose of Flexeril?
Taking too much of this medication may result in extreme drowsiness, rapid heartbeat or confusion, while in extreme situations may lead to seizures or even a coma — in which case you should call emergency services immediately.
Is it possible to discontinue use of Flexeril abruptly?
It can be done as it’s a medication that doesn’t usually lead to dependency, but you should check with your doctor if you’ve been on it for over a few weeks.
Is Flexeril considered a pain relief medication?
Unlike some other medications, no. While it is true that Flexeril doesn’t deal with pain directly, it does allow relief by relaxing muscles which enables movement as well as facilitating the healing process.
