Zanaflex (Tizanidine) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Zanaflex

Chronic Pain »

Introduction to Chronic Pain

You know it at once. It may be the fiery sensation of a burn moments after your finger touches the stove. Or it's a dull ache above your brow after a day of stress and tension. Or you may recognize it as a sharp pierce in your back after you lift something heavy.

It is pain. In its most benign form, it warns us that something isn't quite right, that we should take medicine or see a doctor. At its worst, however, pain robs us of our productivity, our well-being, and, for many of us suffering from extended illness, our very lives. Pain is a complex perception that differs enormously among individual patients, even those who appear to have identical injuries or illnesses.

In 1931, the French medical missionary Dr. Albert Schweitzer wrote, "Pain is a more terrible lord of mankind than even death itself." Today, pain has become the universal disorder, a serious and costly public health issue, and a challenge for famil...

Read the Chronic Pain article »

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Zanaflex Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

TIZANIDINE - ORAL

(tize-AN-ih-deen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zanaflex

USES: This medication is used to treat muscle tightness and cramping (spasm) caused by conditions such as multiple sclerosis or spinal injury. Decreasing spasms can reduce pain and improve your ability to move around. Tizanidine is a short-acting muscle relaxant that works by blocking certain nerve signals from the spine to the brain (alpha adrenergic agonist).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed. When you start this medication, your dosage will probably need to be increased slowly by your doctor to reduce side effects, especially dizziness and/or drowsiness. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to use this medication correctly, and follow all instructions carefully. This medication usually starts to work in 1 to 2 hours and wears off after 6 to 8 hours. Tizanidine can be taken every 6 to 8 hours, but you should not take more than 36 milligrams a day or more than 3 doses in 24 hours. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.

Your body will absorb this medication differently depending on whether you take it as a tablet or capsule, whether you take it with food or on an empty stomach, or if you sprinkle the contents of the capsule on food. Be sure to discuss this with your doctor to determine the best way to take your dose, especially when changes to your dose are being considered or if your doctor prescribes a different form of tizanidine (e.g., tablet or capsule).

This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as anxiety, tremor, increased blood pressure, heart rate and muscle tenseness) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.