Zanaflex

Zanaflex is a muscle relaxant which works by blocking nerve impulses (or pain sensations) that are sent to your brain. Zanaflex is used to treat increased muscle tone associated with spasticity.

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. Please consult your healthcare professional before using this or any other prescription or non-prescription medication.

Uses of Zanaflex

Zanaflex is a muscle relaxant. Zanaflex works by blocking nerve impulses (or pain sensations) that are sent to your brain. Zanaflex is used to treat increased muscle tone associated with spasticity. Zanaflex may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

Zanaflex Directions

Take Zanaflex exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Zanaflex is usually taken several times a day. Follow your doctor's instructions. Do not take more than three doses of Zanaflex--or more than 36 mg--in 24 hours. Too much Zanaflex can damage your liver.

Zanaflex Side Effects

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Zanaflex and seek emergency medical attention: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); hallucinations or abnormal behavior; or liver damage (yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe fatigue). Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Zanaflex and talk to your doctor if you experience drowsiness or dizziness; weakness; dry mouth; increased muscle tone or spasms; or sweating. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Zanaflex Precautions

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Zanaflex may cause drowsiness and dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities. Dizziness is most likely to occur when you rise from a sitting or lying position. Rise slowly to prevent dizziness and a possible fall. Use caution with alcohol, other muscle relaxants, sleep or anxiety medicines, and pain medicines. These drugs may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Zanaflex. Do not take any other medicine during treatment with Zanaflex without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

Zanaflex Drug Interactions

Zanaflex may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine unless your doctor approves. Birth control pills can increase the effects of Zanaflex. Tell your doctor if you are taking birth control pills before starting treatment with Zanaflex. Zanaflex may lower blood pressure. Tell your doctor if you are taking another medicine to lower blood pressure or a medicine to treat another heart condition. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Zanaflex. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Missed Dose of Zanaflex

Take the missed dose of Zanaflex as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of Zanaflex.

Zanaflex Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose are not well known but include unconsciousness and irregular breathing.