Muscle relaxants


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Examples


Brand Name Chemical Name
Somacarisoprodol
Brand Name Chemical Name
Flexerilcyclobenzaprine hydrochloride
Brand Name Chemical Name
Valiumdiazepam
Brand Name Chemical Name
Skelaxinmetaxalone
Brand Name Chemical Name
Robaxinmethocarbamol

How It Works


The muscle-relaxing effects of this class of medication are most likely the result of their ability to depress the central nervous system. They are also called sedatives.


Why It Is Used


Muscle relaxants can be helpful when severe muscle spasms follow the start of low back pain.

Diazepam (Valium) and carisoprodol (such as Soma) are not recommended for use by pregnant women, older adults, or people who have depression or a history of drug or alcohol addiction.


How Well It Works


For acute low back pain, muscle relaxants improve pain, muscle tension, and mobility more effectively than a placebo does.1 However, side effects are common.

For chronic low back pain, muscle relaxants may relieve pain and lead to overall improvement, but side effects are common.2


Side Effects


Possible side effects of muscle relaxants include:

  • Drowsiness or dizziness.
  • Possible addiction or dependence.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Urinary retention.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)


What To Think About


Muscle relaxants should only be taken at bedtime and never before driving or operating machinery.

Use of muscle relaxants is restricted to short-term use to avoid addiction.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.


References


Citations

  1. Van Tulder M, Koes B (2004). Low back pain (acute). Clinical Evidence (12): 1643–1658.

  2. Van Tulder M, Koes B (2004). Low back pain (chronic). Clinical Evidence (12): 1657–1682.


Credits


Author Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Author Lila Havens
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Katy E. Magee, MA
Associate Editor Michele Cronen
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD

- Emergency Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kathie Hummel-Berry, PT, PhD

- Physical Therapy
Specialist Medical Reviewer Robert B. Keller, MD

- Orthopedics
Last Updated February 15, 2006

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Last updated: February 15, 2006
Author: Lila Havens
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics
Editors: Katy E. Magee, MA, Tracy Landauer

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.

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