Information
About Flexeril
IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information
is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your
physician, pharmacist or other healthcare
professional. It should not be construed
to indicate that use of the drug is safe,
appropriate, or effective for you. Consult
your healthcare professional before using
this drug.
CYCLOBENZAPRINE - ORAL (sye-klo-BENZ-uh-preen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Flexeril
USES: This medication relaxes muscles
and relieves pain and discomfort associated
with strains, sprains, spasms or other
muscle injuries.
HOW TO USE: May be taken with food if
stomach upset occurs. Take this medication
as directed. Do not increase your dose
or take it more often than prescribed.
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.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking this drug,
tell your doctor if you have: glaucoma,
an overactive thyroid gland, heart disease,
difficulty urinating, any allergies. Inform
your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding
before taking this drug.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of
any over-the-counter or prescription medications
you take, especially of: cimetidine, antidepressants,
sedatives, tranquilizers, sleeping pills,
narcotic pain medication (e.g., codeine),
anti-allergy drugs, drugs used for asthma,
cough-and-cold medicines. Alcohol adds
to the dizziness and drowsiness caused
by cyclobenzaprine. Limit alcohol intake.
Do not start or stop any medicine without
doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact
your local poison control center or emergency
room immediately. Symptoms of overdose
may include drowsiness, fast or irregular
heartbeat, enlarged pupils, seizures,
and loss of consciousness.
NOTES: Do not use for longer than 3 weeks
unless specifically instructed to do so.
This medication provides temporary relief
and must be used in addition to rest,
physical therapy and other measures. Do
not allow anyone else to take this medication.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take
as soon as remembered; do not take if
it is almost time for the next dose, instead,
skip the missed dose and resume your usual
dosing schedule. Do not "double-up"
the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away
from sunlight and moisture.
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