Detailed Drug Information:

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant.Specifically, cyclobenzaprine relieves muscle spasm when the spasm is dueto local problems (that is, problems originating in the muscle itself andnot in the nerves controlling the muscles). Cyclobenzaprine has no effecton muscle function. Cyclobenzaprine seems to accomplish its beneficialeffect through a complex mechanism within the nervous system, probably inthe brainstem.

PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 10mg.

STORAGE: Tablets should be stored between 5° and 30° C(41° and 86°F).

PRESCRIBED FOR: Cyclobenzaprine is used together with rest andphysical therapy for short-term relief of painful muscle conditions. It isonly for short-term use, up to 2 to 3 weeks.

DOSING: Cyclobenzaprine is most often prescribed three timesdaily but should be taken according to the physician's recommendations.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Cyclobenzaprine is chemically related to thetricyclic class of antidepressants (e.g. amitriptyline, Elavil;nortriptyline, Pamelor). As such, it should not be taken with or withintwo weeks of any monoamine oxidase inhibitor, for example, isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate), andprocarbazine (Matulane). High fever, convulsions and even death can occurwhen these drugs are used together. Additionally, cyclobenzaprineinteracts with other medications and drugs that slow the brain'sprocesses, such as alcohol, barbiturates, benzodiazepines (e.g. lorazepam, Ativan), and narcotics.

PREGNANCY: There are no adequate studies of cyclobenzaprine inpregnant women. However, studies in animals suggest no important effectson the fetus. Cyclobenzaprine therefore can be used in pregnancy if thephysician feels that it is necessary.

NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known whether cyclobenzaprine is secreted in milk. However, since it is related to the tricyclic antidepressants, some of which are excreted in breast milk, caution isadvised in using this medication in lactating women.

SIDE EFFECTS: Among the most common side effects ofcyclobenzaprine are drowsiness (which occurs in between 1 in 6 and 1 in 3persons), dry mouth (between 1 in 14 and 1 in 4), and dizziness (between 1in 30 and 1 in 9). Other reported side effects, for which the incidence isless than 1 in 30, include nausea, tiredness, constipation, blurredvision, unpleasant taste, nervousness, confusion, and abdominal pain ordiscomfort.