Doctors' Answers to "Frequently Asked Questions" - Methocarbamol


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.

Methocarbamol and Depression [posted 8/11/98]
Question: Can methocarbamol trigger a temporary state of depression in clinically depressed individuals?

Answer: Methocarbamol (Robaxin) is used to treat muscle spasm and pain. The mode of action of this drug is not known, but it is a central nervous system depressant. Due to this, it must be used with caution in combination with alcohol, benzodiazepines and other CNS depressants. While depression is not listed as a side effect, I have seen some patients experience this on Robaxin.

Methocarbamol and Soma [posted 8/4/98]
Question: My doctor prescribed Methocarbamol tablets, USP 500 mg for back pain. I want to know if it is the same thing as Soma?

Answer: Soma is carisopodol 200 mg, aspirin 325 mg, codeine phosphate 15 mg. Very different form methocarbamol.

Methocarbamol
Question: Is this 750 mg tab appropriate to use for knee pain & swelling? I have not injured this area to my knowledge but have localized swelling as well as puffiness all the way down to my toes. I have taken Motrin to no avail and had this methocarbamol from 1995.

Answer: Methocarbamol(brand name Rohaxin) is a medicine that is used to treat painful, sore muscles. The medicine does not appear to relax muscle and the mode of action is currently unknown. It is given intravenously as well as orally. Oral dosage is usually 1500mg four times a day with a reduction to 1000 mg four times a day after the first two days. I would be concerned that the swelling might represent phlebitis-- not muscle problems.

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