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.
SKELETAL MUSCLE RELAXANTS - ORAL
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Parafon
Forte DSC, Robaxin, Skelaxin
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 or immediately after meals to prevent stomach upset.
Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or take
it for a longer period of time than prescribed by your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: May cause stomach
upset, heartburn, constipation, headache, dizziness or drowsiness
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: persistent stomach pain,
skin rash, itching, rapid heart rate, yellowing of eyes or
skin. May discolor urine. This will disappear when the medication
is stopped. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction
to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of
an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness,
trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed
above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor
your medical history, especially of: seizures, kidney or liver
disease, any drug allergies. Alcoholic beverages may increase
the dizziness/drowsiness effects of this drug. Limit alcohol
intake. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness
such as driving or operating machinery. When arising quickly
from a sitting or lying position, this drug may cause dizziness/lightheadedness.
Change positions slowly. This medication should be used during
pregnancy only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and
benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug is
excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your
doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication
you take including any medication such as: sedatives, tranquilizers,
narcotics (pain medication), sleeping pills, medication for
seizures, depression, allergies, hay fever, colds. Do not
start taking any of the drugs mentioned above without consulting
your doctor. 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 severe
drowsiness or unconsciousness.
NOTES: This medication provides
temporary relief and must be used in addition to rest, physical
therapy and other measures as directed by your doctor. Do
not allow anyone else to take this medication.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss
a dose, take as soon as remembered within 1 hour. Otherwise
skip that dose and resume usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up"
the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature
between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C)
away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
