Zanaflex (Tizaden)
Tizanidine is a prescription drug that comes as an oral tablet and an oral capsule. Tizanidine oral tablet is available as a brand-name drug Zanaflex. It’s also available as a generic drug. Generic drugs usually cost less than the brand-name version. In some cases, they may not be available in all strengths or forms as the brand-name drug.
Zanaflex (tizanidine) is a short-acting muscle relaxer. It works by blocking nerve impulses (pain sensations) that are sent to your brain. Zanaflex is used to treat spasticity associated with diseases like multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries by temporarily relaxing muscle tone.
- Brand Name(s): Zanaflex
- Generic Name: tizanidine (tye ZAN i deen)
- Drug Class: Muscle Relaxer
DESCRIPTION
This medication is used to treat muscle spasms caused by certain conditions (such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury). It works by helping to relax the muscles. How to use ZanaflexTake this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually every 6 to 8 hours.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Do not take more than 36 milligrams a day or more than 3 doses in a 24-hour period.
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 with your doctor how to take this medication 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 (such as tablet or capsule).
If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as anxiety, tremor, increased blood pressure/heart rate/muscle tenseness). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used tizanidine for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal.
Uses
HOW TO USE
This medication is used to treat muscle spasms caused by certain conditions (such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury).It works by helping to relax the muscles. How to use ZanaflexTake this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually every 6 to 8 hours.
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 with your doctor how to take this medication 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 (such as tablet or capsule).
Dosage
Initial dose: 2 mg orally every 6 to 8 hours as needed
-Peak effects occur in approximately 1 to 2 hours and last for 3 to 6 hours; treatment can be repeated as needed to a maximum of 3 doses in 24 hours;
gradually increase dose by 2 to 4 mg at intervals of 1 to 4 days until satisfactory reduction of muscle tone is achieved.
Maximum single dose: 16 mg
Maximum daily dose: 36 mg in 24 hours
Side Effect
Dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, constipation, weakness, and tiredness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
To relieve dry mouth, suck (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute.
To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.
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 right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fainting, mental/mood changes (such as hallucinations), slow/irregular heartbeat, vision changes (such as blurred vision).
Tizanidine has rarely caused very serious (rarely fatal) liver disease. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms of liver disease, including: persistent nausea/vomiting, severe stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: 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.