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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