Tizanidine: How Should I Take Tizanidine
Content provided by Cerner Multum, Inc.
How should I take tizanidine?
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.
 | Take this medication with a full glass of water. |
Tizanidine is a short-acting medication, and its effects will be most noticeable between 1 and 6 hours after you take it. This medication should be taken only for daily activities that require relief from muscle spasticity.
In most cases, you may take up to three doses in one day if needed. Allow 6 to 8 hours to pass between doses.
 | Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about taking this medication with or without food. Taking tizanidine tablets with food can increase the levels of tizanidine in your blood stream, but taking tizanidine capsules with food can decrease the levels. |
Switching between tizanidine tablets and capsules, or changing the way you take it with regard to eating, can cause an increase in side effects or a decrease in therapeutic effect. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. After making any changes in how you take tizanidine, contact your doctor if you notice any change in how well the medicine works or if it causes increased side effects.
 | Do not take more than three doses (36 mg) in a 24-hour period. Too much of this medication can damage your liver. |
To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your liver function will need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
You may have withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, fast heart rate, tremors, anxiety, and increased spasticity when you stop using tizanidine after using it over a long period of time. Do not stop using this medication suddenly without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.
 | Store tizanidine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. |
| Last updated: | August 10, 2007 |
|---|
© 2007, Cerner Multum, INC. Version: 5.02.
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, Use of Content Agreement and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
