Flexeril (Cyclobenzaprine Hcl) Drug Overview of Side Effects and Precautions for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

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Lower Back Pain »

Low back pain facts

Functions of the low back, or lumbar area, include structural support, movement, and protection of certain body tissues.
Pain in the low back can relate to the bony lumbar spine, discs between the vertebrae, ligaments around the spine and discs, spinal cord and nerves, muscles of the low back, internal organs of the pelvis and abdomen, and the skin covering the lumbar area.
Treatment of low back pain is optimally directed toward a diagnosed or suspected specific cause. For acute lumbar strain, use of a home remedy initially can be beneficial.

What is the anatomy of the low back?

The first step to understanding low back pain is appreciating the normal design (anatomy) of the tissues of this area of the body. Important structures of the low back that can be related to symptoms in this region include the bony lumbar spine (vertebrae, singular = vert...

Read the Lower Back Pain article »

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SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, lightheadedness, constipation or blurred vision may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, hallucinations), difficulty urinating.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, fainting, yellowing of the eyes/skin, stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting/lack of appetite, dark urine, seizures, loss of coordination.

A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking cyclobenzaprine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia), other heart problems (congestive heart failure, heart block or conduction disorders), recent heart attack, moderate or severe liver disease.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: severe difficulty urinating (urinary retention), glaucoma, mild liver disease.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.

To minimize dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position.

Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its side effects, especially drowsiness, mental/mood changes, and possibly heart problems which could lead to a fall.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Based on information for similar drugs, cyclobenzaprine may pass into breast milk. Therefore, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.