Cyclobenzaprine (By Mouth)

Cyclobenzaprine (sye-kloe-BEN-za-preen)

Treats pain and stiffness caused by muscle spasms.

Brand Name(s):

Flexeril
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to cyclobenzaprine, or if you have an overactive thyroid, heart problems, heart failure, or a recent heart attack. You should not use this medicine if you have taken an MAO inhibitor such as Nardil®, Parnate® or Marplan® within the past 14 days.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• May be taken on an empty or full stomach.

If a dose is missed:

• May be taken as soon as possible.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
• Keep all medicine out of reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Unless approved by your doctor, You should not use this medicine with alcohol, tricyclic antidepressant drugs (e.g., imipramine, desipramine, doxepin, Elavil®, Aventyl®), or medicines like sleeping pills, tranquilizers, antihistamines, narcotic-type pain killers, sedatives, or other muscle relaxants.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Check with your doctor before taking if you have had an unusual reaction to other muscle relaxants or if you have trouble with urination or glaucoma.
• You should not use more of this medicine, or take it for longer periods, than your doctor has ordered.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Swelling of face, tongue, or lips
• Severe skin rash or hives
• Fast, pounding or irregular heartbeat
• Seizures
• Severe drowsiness, fainting, confusion
• Not urinating for more than 6 hours

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Drowsiness or weakness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Unpleasant taste
• Headache
• Shakiness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.