FLEXERIL DRUG INFO
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 Flexeril.
CYCLOBENZAPRINE - ORAL (sye-klo-BENZ-uh-preen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Flexeril
USES: Flexeril 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: Flexeril 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 Flexeril, 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
Flexeril.
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 Flexeril for longer than
3 weeks unless specifically instructed to do so. Flexeril
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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