METAXALONE

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Skelaxin

GENERIC NAME(S): METAXALONE

 

Description: Metaxalone is a centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant. The precise mechanism of action in humans is not known. Its effect may be associated with general CNS depression. Unlike neuromuscular blocking agents, Metaxalone does not have direct effect on the contractile mechanism of striated muscle, the motor end plate or the nerve fiber.

Onset: Usually within 1 hr.

Duration: Approx 4-6 hr.

Pharmacokinetics:

Distribution: Extensively distributed; apparent Vd: About 800 L.

Metabolism: Undergoes hepatic metabolism.

Excretion: Excreted in urine (as unidentified metabolites). Terminal half-life: About 4-14 hr. Apparent oral clearance: About 59-68 L/hr.

Metaxalone is used to treat muscle spasms/pain. It is usually used along with rest, physical therapy, and other treatment.

How to use metaxalone

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 3 or 4 times a day. If you take this medication after a high-fat meal and experience side effects, it may be best to take this drug on an empty stomach or after a light meal.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: mental/mood changes (such as nervousness, irritability, confusion), signs of infection (such as fever, persistent sore throat), yellowing eyes/skin, unusual tiredness, fast/pounding heartbeat, dark urine.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Before taking metaxalone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, anemia, seizures.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion. These side effects can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

 

Interactions:

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness including alcohol, antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants, and narcotic pain relievers (such as codeine).

Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including certain urine glucose tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another condition unless your doctor directs you to do so. A different medication may be necessary in that case.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

 

Brands:

Available Brands:

Skelaxin

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