Doctors' Answers to "Frequently Asked Questions" - Cyclobenzaprine

These comments are made for the purpose of discussion and should NOT be used as recommendations for or against therapies or other treatments. An individual patient is always advised to consult their own physician.

Cyclobenzaprine [posted 1/14/99]
Question: My doctor has prescribed Cyclobenzaprine with nortriptylene for chronic headaches. I noticed in the doctors comments he warns not to mix Cyclobenzaprine with anti-depressants. Should I be concerned about this combination of prescriptions that I have been taking for 2 weeks?

Answer: Mainly sedation would be the contraindication. You'd need to see if it affects you.

Cyclobenzaprine [posted 1/6/99]
Question: I was prescribed cyclobenzaprine for headaches, but I also take vicodin, paxil and ibuprofen on occasion. What are the risk's in this?

Answer: Excessive somnolence.

Cyclobenzaprine Information [posted 12/10/98]
Question: Can you help me find information on cyclobenzaprine 10 mg, generic for flexiril by Schein. I looked and couldn't find it anywhere?

Answer: Well, you won't since the companies keep their costs down by not paying for the PDR space. Scheins tel no. 800-356-5790, check with them.

Cyclobenzaprine
Question: Can you tell me if it is safe to use cyclobenzaprine as a permanent pain reliever in conjunction with NSAIDs? My twin sister, who has FMS and MPS, has been given this drug by her rheumatologist, and she has taken it everyday for three years. We haven't been able to obtain any information on long-term use. The same rheumatologist has just given me the same drug, and it seems to be very effective in alleviating my chronic headaches. I usually must take six Fiorocet per day, and have taken this drug for fifteen years. Cyclobenzaprine is the only other drug that has helped my headaches and doesn't make me feel drugged. If you aren't aware of long-term side effects, perhaps you can refer me to one of the drug companies that makes cyclobenzaprine.

Answer: There are obvious problems taking cyclobenzaprine long term, but Fioricet is mildly addicting long term. You can contact Merck for more information on cyclobenzaprine at 800-672-6372.

Cyclobenzaprine
Question: Could you please tell me what Cyclobenzaprine is primarily used for and any possible side effects.

Answer: Cyclobenzaprine is the generic name for Flexeril. This is usually used to treat muscle spasms from back pain. Its common side effects are drowsiness, dry mouth and dizziness. It should not be used in patients with glaucoma and can precipitate an attack. It should not be used while taking MAO anti-depressants. In my practice, it is generally well tolerated.

Cyclobenzaprine
Question: I was given this drug to take when I was hospitalized for a severe blow to the head that I was knocked unconscious for. I want to know why this drug was given to me? Was it for swelling or pain? I still get headaches from time to time and my concussion was 5 months ago.

Answer: Cyclobenzaprine is usually used for muscle spasm. Possibly it was given to reduce some of the cervical spasm secondary to the head trauma. It is not useful in treating swelling and has some effect on pain.

Menstural Cycle
Question:Can this type of muscle relaxant cause a female's menstural cycle to be delayed? I know when I was taking Methacarbamol it was delayed until after one month of not taking it. If so, what is the reason it does this?

Answer: Cyclobenzaprine(Flexeril) is a drug used to treat muscle spasms. This is most commonly used with muscle spasms caused by hack or muscle injury. It is closely related in structure to a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants and occasional side effects related to this class of drugs are seen. It should never be used in conjunction with someone taking anti- depressant drugs. It should be used with caution if one has glaucome, urinary retention problems, or while taking other drugs which produce anticholinergic action. The most frequent side effects are dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, and fatigue. It is not listed as having effects on menstrual periods;but, has been implicated in breast enlargement and galactorrhea(breast discharge).

Loss of Appetite
Question:I was diagnosed with an abdominal strain, the doctor prescribed cyclobenzaprine, my question is: Will an abdominal strain cause a loss of appetite?

Answer:The strain won't ;but, the cyclobenzaprine can.


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