Zanaflex

Generic name: Tizanidine

What is Zanaflex?

Zanaflex works inside your brain and spinal cord to act on receptors that help to control muscle spasticity (muscle spasms). It is used to treat muscle spasms that interfere with daily activities.

What is the most important information I should know about Zanaflex?

You should use caution when taking Zanaflex if you have any type of liver or kidney problems.

Contact your doctor right away if you experience any nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Rarely, Zanaflex can also cause hallucinations or even psychosis. If you experience any type of hallucination while taking Zanaflex, tell your doctor right away.

Suddenly stopping treatment can cause certain medical problems; therefore, always talk to your doctor before deciding to stop Zanaflex therapy.

Zanaflex capsules and tablets are not interchangeable. If you have been taking one, make sure your doctor knows if you switch to another formulation.

The sedative effects of Zanaflex may be increased if you are also taking other medicines that cause tiredness or fatigue, or if you drink alcohol while taking Zanaflex.

Since this medication can decrease your spasticity, be care when using Zanaflex if your spasticity helps you with posture or balance.

Who should not take Zanaflex?

You should not take Zanaflex if you are also taking ciprofloxacin or fluvoxamine. These medicines can greatly increase the level of Zanaflex in your body. You should also not take Zanaflex if you are allergic or sensitive to it or any of its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Zanaflex?

Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Zanaflex. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of liver, kidney, or heart problems; if you are taking oral birth control pills or medicines to treat high blood pressure; or if you drink alcohol on a regular basis.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual starting dose is 4 milligrams (mg) taken every 6-8 hours as needed. Your doctor may increase your dose up to 6-8 mg taken every 6-8 hours depending on your condition.

How should I take Zanaflex?

Zanaflex should be taken at the same time every day, with or without food. However, food greatly affects the amount of Zanaflex your body absorbs. You should remain consistent in taking Zanaflex either with or without food throughout your Zanaflex therapy.

What should I avoid while taking Zanaflex?

You should not drive a car or operate heavy machinery until you know how Zanaflex will affect you. You should not take more Zanaflex than your doctor prescribes.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Zanaflex?

If Zanaflex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zanaflex with the following: acyclovir; alcohol; antiarrhythmics, including amiodarone, mexiletine, propafenone, and verapamil; cimetidine; ciprofloxacin; fluvoxamine; fluroquinolone-type antibiotics; famotidine; medicines used to treat high blood pressure, especially those known as alpha 2 agonists, such as clonidine; oral birth control pills; other medicines that cause tiredness or fatigue; and zileuton.

What are the possible side effects of Zanaflex?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: dry mouth, weakness, tiredness, dizziness, light-headedness, urinary tract infection or other infections, constipation, liver damage, vomiting, trouble speaking, blurred vision, urinary frequency, flu-like symptoms, irregular muscle movements, nervousness, sore throat, runny nose, lowered blood pressure, slow heart rate

Can I receive Zanaflex if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Zanaflex during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tizanidine should be given to pregnant women only if clearly needed. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

It is not known whether Zanaflex is excreted in human milk, although as a lipid soluble drug, it might be expected to pass into breast milk.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Zanaflex?

If you forget to take Zanaflex, take it as soon as you remember. If it is closer to your next scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and take Zanaflex according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double your doses.

How should I store Zanaflex?

Store at room temperature in a child-proof container.