Detailed Drug Information:

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Metaxalone relaxes muscles and is used for short-term, painful muscular conditions in which muscles are in spasm. It is used as an adjunct during physical therapy and stretching of muscles. The mechanism of action of metaxalone is unknown. Metaxalone was approved by the FDA in 1962.

PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 400mg.

STORAGE: Tablets should be stored at room temperature, 15-30°C (59-86°F).

PRESCRIBED FOR: Metaxalone is used for the treatment of muscle spasm.

DOSING: Metaxalone usually is taken as 800 mg, three or four times daily. Benefits are seen within one hour of ingestion.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: No important drug interactions have been described with metaxalone.

PREGNANCY: Experience in pregnant women has not demonstrated evidence of fetal injury, but the possibility of subtle damage cannot be excluded. The physician must weigh the potential benefits and the possible hazards to the fetus before prescribing metaxalone in pregnant women.

NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known whether metaxalone is excreted in breast milk. Safety for use in the nursing mother has not been established.

SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects with metaxalone are drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nervousness, irritability, nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach. Less commonly, rash, anemia, low white blood cell count, and jaundice occur.