What is Flexeril?

Flexeril or cyclobenzaprine (generic name) is a medication meant to relax muscles. It blocks nerve impulses which are sent to the brain and relieves pain feeling.

Flexeril is often coupled with medicines for rest and physical therapy and is used for skeletal muscle conditions (injury and pain, for instance) treatment.

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

You shouldn`t take Flexeril if you have been under MAO inhibiting drugs, such as selegiline (e.g. Eldepryl, Emsam), phenelzine (e.g. Nardil), tranylcypromine (e.g. Parnate) or socarboxazid (e.g. Marplan) within the previous 2 weeks. If you mix Flexeril with MAO inhibitors, there will be a risk of serious and life-threatening side effects.

Do not use Flexeril if you have a history of congestive heart failure, heart attack, overactive thyroid, heart rhythm disorder or heart block.

In some cases taking Flexeril impairs patient`s reactions and mental activity. You should be careful when you drive, operate heavy machinery or perform other tasks requiring full attention.

Flexeril shouldn`t be mixed with alcohol; otherwise its side effects may increase.

See your doctor before starting treatment with Flexeril if you had one of the following conditions:

• glaucoma;
• enlarged prostate;
• problems with urination;
• liver disease.

In this case you have to adjust your dose properly and pass special medical tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category B. Flexeril isn`t expected to be harmful for a fetus. Consult with your health care provider in case you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Avoid using Flexeril while breastfeeding a baby, as it is unknown whether the drug appears in breast milk and has a negative impact on a child.

People over 65 years aren`t recommended to take Flexeril.

How should I take Flexeril?

Adjust your dose and keep it in a proper way. Never exceed the amount of Flexeril to prevent undesirable side effects. Use Flexeril with a glass of water. Swallow the pill whole without crushing, opening and breaking the capsule.

Store Flexeril away from moisture, heat and light. Keep the medication at room temperature in a safe place where children can`t reach it.

What happens if I miss a dose?

In case you occasionally missed a dose of Flexeril it is recommended you should take it as soon as you remember. Never take two doses to catch up. In case it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. After that you should return to your regular schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical assistance if overdose is suspected. The most common symptoms of overdose include nausea, tremors or shaking, slurred speech, fast heartbeat, confusion, drowsiness, hallucinations, chest pain, vomiting and seizure (convulsions).