|
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.
|
