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.
