Muscle Relaxers Information

Muscle relaxers are prescription drugs used to treat spasms and muscle pain. The spasms and pain are often due to illnesses like arthritis, or injuries. Most muscle relaxers do have some addictive potential, and are therefore monitored by the federal government. Like any medications, some people do experience allergic reaction or adverse side effects associated with their drug treatment.

Precautions

Muscle relaxant drugs work best when accompanied by medical treatments such as physical therapy exercises, according to MedlinePlus. Muscle spasms and injuries require rest along with any pain management medications, including relaxers. Few muscle relaxers are intended for long-term use, and some like Soma and Valium do have potential for addiction and even fatal overdose.

Soma

Soma is a prescription muscle relaxer chemically comprised of carisoprodol, according to MedlinePlus. Most patients take the pills three to four times a day and can ingest the medication with or without food. Those who are pregnant or nursing should avoid the drug, and it may affect one's ability to drive. Possible side effects associated with Soma include rapid heartbeat, dizziness, drowsiness, upset stomach, and vomiting.

Valium

Valium is a prescription sedative that is used as a muscle relaxer, according to MedlinePlus. It also helps reduce anxiety and sleeping problems. The medication is comprised of the benzodiazepine diazepam, and is available in both pill and liquid form. Those who smoke cigarettes may have decreased Valium benefits. Possible side effects include a shuffling walk, changes in sex drive and/or appetite, dizziness, dry mouth, diarrhea, and upset stomach.

Skelaxin

Skelaxin is a prescription muscle relaxer chemically comprised of metaxalone, according to MedlinePlus. Most patients take the pills three or four times a day. Those with liver or heart disease may be advised to avoid Skelaxin. Possible side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, upset stomach, vomiting, headache, and nervousness. Yellow skin, unusual bleeding or bruising, and seizures resulting from Skelaxin are considered medical emergencies.

Flexeril

Flexeril is a prescription muscle relaxer chemically comprised of cyclobenzaprine, according to MedlinePlus. Most patients take the pills two to four times a day. Those with heart disease, glaucoma, problems urinating, or an overactive thyroid gland may be advised to avoid Flexeril. Possible side effects are dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, and upset stomach. Serious side effects that require emergency medical help are chest pain, fever, irregular heart rate, and seizures.

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