Skelaxin 800 mg what is it for

Skelaxin and Flexeril are both indicated to be used along with rest, physical therapy, and other measures to relieve the discomfort of acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions like acute low back pain or neck pain. Both drugs may be prescribed off-label for other conditions, but they are primarily used for muscle spasms. Also, the Flexeril manufacturer information states that the drug is not effective for spasticity associated with cerebral or spinal cord disease, or in children with cerebral palsy.

American Family Physician states that there is weak and very little evidence in terms of muscle relaxants and their efficacy compared to each other. They recommend that the selection of a muscle relaxant should be based on the potential for side effects, drug interactions, abuse, and also patient preference.

This publication also reiterates the importance of short-term use of muscle relaxants and that physical therapy and other measures should be taken to prevent long-term use of a muscle relaxant. Other medications such as Tylenol acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, may also be used. Your healthcare provider can determine if Skelaxin or Flexeril is appropriate for you. He or she will consider your symptoms, medical conditions, medical history, and any medications you take that may interact with Skelaxin or Flexeril.

Most insurance plans typically cover Skelaxin in its generic form of metaxalone. Medicare Part D coverage varies. Most insurance and Medicare Part D plans cover Flexeril generic. Brand-name Flexeril is not available. Both drugs can be very sedating. With either drug, an allergic reaction is rare but possible. Serotonin syndrome , a life-threatening condition due to serotonin buildup, is also possible. Skelaxin and Flexeril can potentiate the effects of alcohol, barbiturates, and other CNS depressants, such as benzodiazepines, opioids, antihistamines, and sedative-hypnotics.

There is an increased risk of serotonin syndrome when Skelaxin or Flexeril is taken with other drugs that increase serotonin; such as SSRI, SNRI, or tricyclic antidepressants; triptans for migraine; or cough and cold medications that contain dextromethorphan.

Flexeril is structurally similar to tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline and nortriptyline. Because of this, there is an increased risk of seizures when taken with tramadol. Both Skelaxin and Flexeril interact with tramadol and other opioids —there is an increased risk of serotonin syndrome as well as additive CNS depression. This is not a full list of drug interactions. Consult your healthcare provider for medical advice regarding drug interactions.

Skelaxin is a skeletal muscle relaxant used for the acute treatment of muscle spasms. The generic name for Skelaxin is metaxalone.

Flexeril is also a muscle relaxant used to treat skeletal muscle spasms. The generic name of Flexeril is cyclobenzaprine. Although Skelaxin and Flexeril are both in the same drug category skeletal muscle relaxants , they do have some differences, such as side effects, dose, and pricing, as outlined above. No data directly compares the two drugs in terms of pain relief. Therefore, if you need a muscle relaxant, your healthcare provider will consider your symptoms, conditions, and any medications you take that could interact with Skelaxin or Flexeril to determine if one of these drugs is better for you.

Safe use of metaxalone has not been established with regard to possible adverse effects upon fetal development. The Flexeril manufacturer information states that there are no adequate, well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, Flexeril should be used in pregnant women only if clearly needed. Using Skelaxin or Flexeril with alcohol can increase the side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.

It can also lead to impaired coordination, which can cause accidents. Also, taking a muscle relaxant with alcohol can increase the chance of abuse or dependence. Consult your healthcare provider for more information. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription over-the-counter medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements.

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.

Metaxalone pronounced as me tax' a lone. Why is this medication prescribed? How should this medicine be used? Other uses for this medicine What special precautions should I follow? What should I do if I forget a dose? What side effects can this medication cause? What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication? Brand names. Other uses for this medicine. What special precautions should I follow? Before taking metaxalone, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to metaxalone, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in metaxalone tablets.

Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients. If you become pregnant while taking metaxalone, call your doctor immediately. Older adults should not usually take metaxalone because it is not as safe or effective as other medications that can be used to treat the same condition. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how metaxalone affects you. Metaxalone may cause side effects. What other information should I know?