Zanaflex muscle relaxant works by impairing the brain’s ability to sense pain. It is used to treat muscl pain associated with muscle spasms.

Uses of Zanaflex

 

Zanaflex is a muscle relaxer that blocks your brain's ability to receive nerve impulses that deliver pain sensations. Zanaflex is used to treat pain from muscle spasms. Your doctor may prescribe Zanaflex for other muscle related discomforts.

 

Zanaflex Directions

 

Follow your doctor's instructions when taking Zanaflex. If you have questions, talk to your pharmacist or a nurse. Call your physician if you still are unsure about how to take Zanaflex. Make sure to drink a full glass of water with each dose of Zanaflex. Most physicians prescribe the medication to be taken several times throughout the day. Follow your dosage instructions carefully. Never take Zanaflex more often than three times each day. You should never take more than 36 milligrams of Zanaflex in 24 hours. Taking excessive doses of Zanaflex can cause liver damage.

 

Zanaflex Side Effects

 

Some side effects can occur when taking Zanaflex. However, if you experience any of the following severe side effects, see a doctor immediately or go directly to the emergency room: symptoms of allergic reaction such as swelling, hives, laboring breath, or swelling of the throat; hallucinations or behavioral changes; a yellowish tint of your eyes or skin indicative of liver damage; unusual bruising or bleeding; abnormal, severe, or bothersome fatigue. Other side effects that are less serious could include lightheadedness, dry mouth, fatigue, muscle spasms, or excessive sweating. Other side effects could occur. Consult your doctor if any side effect concerns you or interrupts your daily life.  

 

Zanaflex Precautions

 

Take careful precautions while taking Zanaflex if you must drive or operate heavy machinery or engage in other dangerous activities. This medication may cause you to feel lightheaded or drowsy. If these feelings occur, avoid driving or operating machinery. You are most likely to experience dizziness after lying down. Sit up slowly to prevent falling or extreme lightheadedness. Avoid alcohol, additional muscle relaxers, sleep medications, anti anxiety medications, and prescriptions pain relievers while taking Zanaflex unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Do not take any other medication while using Zanaflex without first consulting your doctor.

 

Zanaflex Drug Interactions

 

Zanaflex could exacerbate the side effects of other drugs, particularly if they cause drowsiness. Zanaflex should not be taken with antihistamines, sleep medications, pain relievers, antidepressants, other muscle relaxers, or alcohol. Talk to your doctor about all medications you are currently taking before starting Zanaflex. Birth control pills can interact with Zanaflex and increase the effects. Tell your physician if you are taking birth control pills before starting Zanaflex. This medication could also cause a decrease in blood pressure. If you are taking medication to control blood pressure or treat heart conditions, consult a doctor before taking Zanaflex. Other medications may interact with Zanaflex, so talk to you doctor before taking any other medications.

 

Missed Dose of Zanaflex

 

If you miss a dose of Zanaflex, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at one time. If the time for your next dose has arrived, just take one dose and skip the missed dose or call your doctor.

 

Zanaflex Overdose

 

If you suspect an overdose of Zanaflex, call poison control and seek immediate medical attention.