Author: James Anderson
Cyclobenzaprine: What Is It? Side Effects & Interactions
Cyclobenzaprine has no effect on muscle function. Cyclobenzaprine seems to accomplish its beneficial effect through a complex mechanism within the nervous system, probably in the brainstem. Using cyclobenzaprine with other drugs that make you drowsy can worsen this effect.
Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely. Taking MAO inhibitors with this medication may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before treatment with this medication. Ask your doctor when to start or stop taking this medication.
Drowsiness is the most commonly reported side effect in studies, occurring in up to 38% (38 out of 100) of people. Avoid or limit the use of alcohol or other sedating medicines while being treated with cyclobenzaprine. Also avoid driving, operating machinery, or other hazardous activities until you know how cyclobenzaprine affects you. Note that this list is not all-inclusive and includes only common medications that may interact with cyclobenzaprine. You should refer to the prescribing information for cyclobenzaprine for a complete list of interactions.
You may report side effects to FDA at FDA-1088 or at /medwatch. This list may not describe all possible side effects. Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, vomiting, fast heartbeats, tremors, agitation, or hallucinations. Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially drowsiness, confusion, constipation, or trouble urinating. Drowsiness and confusion can increase the risk of falling. Before taking cyclobenzaprine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis). This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
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After you eat the mixture, take a drink, and swish and swallow to make sure that you have received all the medication. Make your tax-deductible gift and be a part of the cutting-edge research and care that’s changing medicine. You’ll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you.
Cyclobenzaprine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
- Note that this list is not all-inclusive and includes only common medications that may interact with cyclobenzaprine.
- This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
- This is not a complete list of possible side effects.
- Eat the mixture right away and swallow without chewing.
Cyclobenzaprine is used together with rest and physical therapy to treat skeletal muscle conditions such as pain or injury. Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. Cyclobenzaprine is used to help relax certain muscles in your body.
Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.
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Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. It may not be safe to breast-feed while using this medicine. Ell your doctor if your condition lasts after 2 to 3 weeks or if it gets worse. If you are not able to swallow the extended-release capsule whole, mix the contents of the capsule with applesauce. Eat the mixture right away and swallow without chewing.
Do not use it later for another condition unless your doctor directs you to do so. A different medication may be necessary in that case. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
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Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval. Other drugs may interact with cyclobenzaprine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Cyclobenzaprine is usually taken taken for up to 2 or 3 weeks. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose.
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This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Data sources include Micromedex (updated 3 Mar 2024), Cerner Multum™ (updated 17 Mar 2024), ASHP (updated 10 Mar 2024) and others. Cyclobenzaprine is in a class of medications called skeletal muscle relaxants. It works by acting in the brain and nervous system to allow the muscles to relax.