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Zanaflex |
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What is Zanaflex and why is it prescribed? Zanaflex relaxes the tense, rigid muscles caused by spasticity. It is prescribed for people with multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and other disorders that produce protracted muscles spasms. The effect of the drug peaks 1 to 2 hours after each dose and is gone within 3 to 6 hours. Zanaflex causes drowsiness in almost half the people who use it. It also tends to reduce blood pressure in many people, frequently leading to dizziness and light-headedness. The likelihood of significant drowsiness increases when Zanaflex is combined with other spasticity drugs, such as Lioresal, Klonopin, and Valium. When taking Zanaflex, always be cautious about driving or operating dangerous machinery. How should you take Zanaflex? Follow your doctors directions for taking Zanaflex. The danger of side effects increases with the size of the dose. Doses should be taken only as needed. Allow 6 to 8 hours between doses. Take no more than three a day. Never double the dose. Store Zanaflex at room temperature. Are there any Zanaflex side effects? Zanaflex side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Zanaflex side effects may include abnormal movements, blurred vision, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, flu-like symptoms, frequent urination, low blood pressure, nervousness, runny nose, slow heartbeat, sore throat, speech disorders, urinary and other infections, vomiting, and weakness or fatigue. Less common side effects may include abdominal pain, anxiety, back pain, depression, diarrhea, fever, indigestion, muscle weakness, rash, sores, sweating, and tingling. A number of very rare Zanaflex side effects have also been reported. If you develop any new or unusual symptoms, be sure to check with your doctor. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Zanaflex? If Zanaflex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Oral contraceptives tend to boost the amount of Zanaflex in the system. If you are using an oral contraceptive, you will probably need a smaller dose of this drug. Alcohol, or any drug that slows the nervous system (including other drugs taken for spasticity), increases the likelihood of drowsiness when taken with Zanaflex. Are there any special warnings about Zanaflex? Researchers have little information on the long-term consequences of using Zanaflex in single doses of more than 8 milligrams, or in total amounts of more than 24 milligrams a day. If you require a higher dosage, previously unrecognized side effects could possibly appear. Remember that Zanaflex can cause low blood pressure and should be used with caution if you are taking blood pressure medication. Be cautious when first standing up. Zanaflex has been known to cause liver injury in a few patients. If you have a liver condition, make sure the doctor knows about it. Alert your doctor immediately if you develop warning signs of a liver problem such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or yellow skin or eyes. You will need a reduced dose of Zanaflex if you have a kidney problem. Be sure to inform the doctor about your condition, and be quick to report side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, and weakness. They could be signs that your dose is too high. Use Zanaflex with caution if spasticity helps you maintain your posture and balance while walking, or helps to increase other functions. Although there are no reports of eye damage from Zanaflex, it has occurred in animal tests. Be sure to report any vision problems to your doctor. Zanaflex has not been tested in children. |
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