FAQs:
Cyclobenzaprine belongs to the class of drugs called cyclic antidepressants. The FDA-approved drug acts centrally on the brain and relieves skeletal muscle pain. It does not have any direct action on the skeletal muscle. Cyclobenzaprine causes muscle relaxation and antispasmodic effects by declining the tonic somatic motor activity through the gamma and alpha motor systems, thus acting as skeletal muscle relaxants. It is recommended to be used only for a few weeks.What are the uses of cyclobenzaprine?
The tricyclic amine salt acts on the central nervous system and reduces muscle hyperactivity. Clinically, it is used to treat acute skeletal muscle spasms and painful musculoskeletal conditions such as fibromyalgia and myofascial pain due to temporomandibular joint disorder. Cyclobenzaprine is also used for the treatment of neuropathic pain, migraine prophylaxis, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is prescribed to relieve pain and discomfort in sudden muscle pain caused by strains, sprains, or injuries.
What are the side effects of cyclobenzaprine?
Common side effects
– Nausea
– Vomiting
– Tiredness
– Dry mouth
– Heartburn (acidity)
– Constipation
– Dizziness (a sensation of losing balance)
– Headache
– Stomach upset
– Appetite loss
Serious side effects
– Tachycardia (increased heart rate)
– Mydriasis (dilation of the pupils of the eye)
– Seizures
– Blurred vision
– Confusion
– Feeling agitated
The majority of side effects associated with cyclobenzaprine resolve on their own and do not require any medical intervention. However, contact your doctor if you experience severe side effects.
1. What does cyclobenzaprine do to your body?
Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant drug that acts on the centrally mediated skeletal muscles by blocking nerve impulses and relieves pain, discomfort, and stiffness originating from injuries, sprains, and strains. Cyclobenzaprine also acts by reducing the hyperactivity of the muscles and thus it produces antispasmodic effects.
3. Is 10 mg of cyclobenzaprine strong?
Yes, in adults, a 10 mg dosage of cyclobenzaprine given three times a day can produce the maximum effect in 3-4 days. However, the dosage should not be above 60 mg per day because it can lead to more toxic side effects. The drug should be taken in consultation with your doctor.
4. Is cyclobenzaprine habit forming?
Although cyclobenzaprine has the potential to be a habit-forming drug, it should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. Usually, it is prescribed for a short term, long-term use can lead to drug dependency. Abrupt discontinuation of this drug is also not recommended because it can cause side effects, such as nausea and vomiting.
5. Is cyclobenzaprine an immunosuppressant?
There is very limited data to support any evidence of cyclobenzaprine being an immunosuppressant. Existing studies do not report any immunosuppressive action of the drug. Cyclobenzaprine acts centrally through the motor pathway and relieves pain; hence, there is no involvement of the immune system mediators in the way cyclobenzaprine works.
6. How long does cyclobenzaprine make you sleepy?
maximum concentration in the blood in approximately 6 to 8 hours and the effect weans off in around 12 to 24 hours. Hence, you can feel sleepy for around 12-24 hours after taking cyclobenzaprine.
7. Is cyclobenzaprine considered an antidepressant?
Cyclobenzaprine is a derivative of the class of tricyclic antidepressants. It is known to produce a depressing effect on the central nervous system by acting on the monoamine oxidase pathway, which causes its sedative effects. However, it should not be used as an antidepressant drug without the consultation of your doctor.
9. Does cyclobenzaprine affect your kidneys?
There is very limited data to support any ill effects of cyclobenzaprine on the kidneys. The drug is primarily removed from your body through the liver and a very limited amount is excreted through the kidneys. However, if you experience any kidney-related side effects, consult your doctor.
10. Does cyclobenzaprine affect serotonin?
Cyclobenzaprine is considered to exert its effect by interfering with the serotonin transmission in the spinal cord. Studies have shown that concentration of serotonin, especially when taken along with drugs such as duloxetine and phenelzine. Cyclobenzaprine has also been reported to produce serotonin syndrome (hyperactive movement).
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Side Effects:
– Vomiting
– Tiredness
– Dry mouth
– Heartburn (acidity)
– Constipation
– Dizziness (a sensation of losing balance)
– Headache
– Stomach upset
– Appetite loss
– Tachycardia (increased heart rate)
– Mydriasis (dilation of the pupils of the eye)
– Seizures
– Blurred vision
– Confusion
– Feeling agitated
References:
More about Cyclobenzaprine:
The majority of side effects associated with cyclobenzaprine resolve on their own and do not require any medical intervention. However, contact your doctor if you experience severe side effects.