Why Flexeril is Prescribed

Flexeril or generic Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant prescribed as short-term medication for those who have sustained a strain, sprain, or other muscle injury. Strains happen when muscles or tendons are torn or stretched. Tendons are the fibrous cord of tissue that connects your muscles to bones. A sprain occurs from stretching or tearing ligaments that connect two bones together, such as your ankle, knee, or elbow. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Flexeril Works in Your Body

Flexeril works in your central nervous system (CNS), which involves your brain and spinal cord, in order to change the signals from your brain that causes your muscles to tighten. These spasms can be painful and cause the injured area to become stiff and impede normal movement. Along with taking Flexeril to relieve the muscle spasms, your physician will also recommend resting and some physical therapy to help your injured muscles return to normal.

Conditions Treated by Flexeril

Skeletal muscle spasms can be caused by overuse, as often seen with athletes that are doing strenuous exercises in a hot environment; it is usually the large muscles that are affected. Starting a new or unfamiliar exercise routine, shoveling snow and yard work can cause you to use muscles that are not accustomed to certain movements and they can start to spasm. Your muscle cells need water, glucose, sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium in order for the proteins within to perform an organized contraction. If the supply of these elements is inadequate, a spasm can develop.

Before Taking Flexeril

Ask your doctor about any risks involved with taking Flexeril if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Discuss other medical conditions or allergies you have and list any current OTC or Rx drugs you take, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements, so your doctor can determine if Flexeril is safe for you to take.

Proper Use of Flexeril

Until you know how Flexeril will affect you, do not operate a vehicle, machinery or perform any task that could be considered unsafe if your thinking or reactions are impaired. Do not start, stop, or change your dosage of Flexeril or any medications without talking to your doctor first. Never share your meds with others, even if they are displaying the same symptoms.

Possible Side Effects of Flexeril

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Blurred vision
• Dry mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea

Drugs Similar to Flexeril

• Robaxin
• Zanaflex
• Norflex