Brand Names: Amrix, Fexmid, Flexeril

Generic Name: cyclobenzaprine (sye kloe BEN za preen)

What is Flexeril?

Flexeril is used together with rest and physical therapy to treat skeletal muscle conditions such as pain or injury.

Flexeril is a muscle relaxant. It works by blocking nerve impulses (or pain sensations) that are sent to your brain.

Flexeril may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Flexeril is used for:

Flexeril is a muscle relaxant. It works in parts of the brain and nervous system to help reduce muscle spasms.

Treating muscle spasms caused by painful muscle conditions. It should be used along with rest and physical therapy. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How Taken

Flexeril comes in 10 mg tablets, and the normal dose in adults is one 10 mg tablet three times daily. You should not exceed a total dosage of 60 mg of Flexeril per day. It might be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. Take Flexeril as directed. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed.

Warnings/Precautions

Flexeril may not be suitable for all individuals. If you have had any of the following conditions in the past, or are being treated for them now, please inform your doctor. In some cases side effects may be minimized by following your doctor\'s advice, but you may be advised not to take Flexeril. Before taking this drug, tell your doctor if you have: glaucoma, an overactive thyroid gland, heart disease, difficulty urinating or any allergies. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding before taking this drug.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Possible Side Effects

May cause stomach upset, heartburn, constipation, headache, dizziness or drowsiness or dry mouth the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become severe, notify your doctor. Inform your doctor if you develop: muscle stiffness, skin rash, itching, rapid heart rate, swelling of the face, difficulty urinating. When rising quickly from a sitting or lying position, dizziness or lightheadedness may occur. Change positions slowly and use caution on stairs. Avoid activities requiring alertness if dizziness or drowsiness occurs. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Storage

Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F) and out of reach of children.

Overdose

The following symptoms indicate an overdose, get medical help immediately: difficulty breathing, extreme nervousness or restlessness, flushed skin, hallucination, racing or irregular heartbeat, seizure, shortness of breath, tiredness (extreme), unstable temperature, unusual muscle stiffness, vomiting (in combination with these other symptoms).

More Information

Flexeril may enhance the effects of alcohol, barbiturates, and other CNS depressants.

General information:

If you have any questions about Flexeril , please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.