About Zanaflex
This antispastic acts on the central nervous system to relax
the muscles. Zanaflex can relieve the cramping, spasms, or
tightness that may be caused by conditions such as multiple
sclerosis or spinal injury. The muscle relaxant effects may
improve the usefulness of physical therapy in improving your
condition.
Zanaflex is only available by prescription.
Zanaflex Side Effects
Mild
: If any of the following
side effects occur, they should go away
as
you become used to your treatment. If any of them persist,
or bother you, speak to your doctor.
Common Side Effects: Anxiety, back pain, burning in
throat, constipation, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness,
dry mouth, heartburn, lightheadedness when standing from a
lying or sitting position, muscle spasm, muscle weakness,
rash, runny nose, stomach pain, sweating, trouble speaking,
uncontrolled movement.
Less Common Side Effects
: Dry skin, hair
loss, joint or muscle aches or stiffness, migraine, mood changes,
neck pain, shaking, swelling in an area that feels warm and
tender, swollen extremities, trembling, trouble swallowing,
unusual sense of well-being, weight loss.
Serious
: If any of the following
side effects occur, check with your doctor
as soon as you can. If the symptom seems severe or worrisome,
seek medical attention.
Common Side Effects
: Decreased appetite,
fever, nausea, nervousness, painful urination, sensations
of tingling or burning, sores on skin, vomiting, yellow eyes
or skin.
Less Common Side Effects
: Black or tarry
stools, blood in vomit, blurry vision, chills, cold feeling,
convulsion or seizure, cough, dry or puffy skin, eye pain,
fainting, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, kidney stones,
sore throat, tiredness, weakness, weight gain.
Cautions: Zanaflex may not be suitable for all individuals.
If you have any history of the following conditions, speak
to your doctor to ensure that your treatment is as safe and
effective as possible.
- Allergy: An allergy to this medication is an indication
that you should stop taking it, and should not use it in
the future. Medication allergies can result in anaphylactic
shock. Also inform your doctor if you have any food or dye
allergies.
- Kidney or Liver Disease
: Increased chance
of side effects due to higher blood levels. Your doctor
should prescribe a lower dose, and may have to monitor and
adjust your dosage until a safe and appropriate individual
dose is determined.
Zanaflex Interactions
This medication may interact with other treatments. Inform your doctor if you are currently taking any of the following medications, or if you need to take them in the future.
- Birth Control Pills (Oral Contraceptives) - Increased
risk of side effects.
- Dilantin (phenytoin) - May increase phenytoin blood levels,
higher risk of serious side effects.
- High Blood Pressure Medication (antihypertensives) - Extreme
low blood pressure may result.
Zanaflex Dosages
The usual adult dose is 8 mg every 6-8 hours, up to a maximum of
36 mg every 24 hours. This is only a general guideline, follow
your doctor's instructions if they are different.
Zanaflex Directions
Store Zanaflex away from direct light and heat. Store in a dry location; avoid storing it in the bathroom, near sinks, or other areas where it may become damp. Do not use after the expiration date.
Keep Zanaflex away from children; both when storing it, and when discarding any unused medication.
Zanaflex and Pregnancy
This medication may cause birth defects or other difficulties with
pregnancy. Zanaflex has not been shown to cause difficulties
with nursing infants, seek the advice of your doctor if you
are currently breastfeeding.
Zanaflex and Children
Zanaflex has not been studied in children.
Zanaflex and Seniors
This medication stays in the body longer in older adults, your doctor will likely prescribe a lower dose.
Zanaflex is a trademark of Elan
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The information contained in this document is provided for educational purposes
and information only. It is not a
substitute for consultation with a physician or Health professional, either to diagnose
symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general
guidelines only, please follow the directions of your doctor or
pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to
ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor,
physician or Health professional can say
if a medication, a drug alternative or drug combination, is safe for you. Information
intended for US residents only.
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