Cyclobenzaprine

What is cyclobenzaprine?

Cyclobenzaprine is a drug that acts as muscle relaxant. By blocking nerve impulses sent to the brain, cyclobenzaprine relieves pain sensations.

The medication is taken together with drugs for rest and physical therapy and is effective for skeletal muscle conditions (like injury or pain) treatment.

What is the most important information I should know about cyclobenzaprine?

Never use cyclobenzaprine if you have taken MAO inhibitors like phenelzine (e.g. Nardil), socarboxazid (e.g. Marplan), selegiline (e.g. Eldepryl, Emsam) or tranylcypromine (e.g. Parnate) within the past two weeks, otherwise it may lead to serious or even life threatening side effects.

In case you have recently had a heart attack, congestive heart failure, overactive thyroid, heart block or heart rhythm disorder, you aren't recommended to use cyclobenzaprine.

Remember that cyclobenzaprine may result in side effects that impair your reaction and thinking. Stay alert and be especially careful if you are under cyclobenzaprine and have to perform tasks that require your full attention.

Do not combine cyclobenzaprine with alcohol, as it can aggravate its side effects.

Consult with your health care provider in case you had such conditions as enlarged prostate, liver disease, glaucoma or problems with urination. You may need dosage adjustment and special monitoring and tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category B. Cyclobenzaprine isn't expected to have a negative effect on a fetus. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or going to become pregnant. It isn't recommended that you use cyclobenzaprine while breastfeeding a baby, as it is still unknown whether the drug passes into breast milk.

Patients who are older than 65 years shouldn't take cyclobenzaprine.

How should I take cyclobenzaprine?

Do not take cyclobenzaprine in larger amounts than your recommended dose. Use the drug with a glass of water. You shouldn't break, crush or open a capsule; swallow the tablet whole. Cyclobenzaprine should be stored at room temperature, away from heat, light and moisture.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the capsule asap. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and return to your standard dosage schedule. Never use two doses to catch up.

What happens if I overdose?

If you notice such symptoms of overdose as fast heartbeat, chest pain, vomiting, seizure, tremors or shaking, drowsiness, slurred speech, nausea, hallucinations or confusion, you should seek immediate medical help.