Cyclobenzaprine

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(Redirected from Flexiril)

Information about Cyclobenzaprine[edit source]

Cyclobenzaprine.svg

Cyclobenzaprine is a centrally acting muscle relaxant closely related to the tricyclic antidepressants. 

Liver safety of Cyclobenzaprine[edit source]

Despite its similarity to tricyclic antidepressants, there is little evidence that cyclobenzaprine causes liver injury.

Mechanism of action of Cyclobenzaprine[edit source]

Cyclobenzaprine (sye" kloe ben' za preen) is a tricyclic antidepressant derivative that relaxes skeletal muscle by an unknown mechanism of action.  Cyclobenzaprine is also a central nervous system depressant, and its efficacy may be related to its sedative effects.  Cyclobenzaprine is used for the treatment of painful muscle spasms from acute muscle conditions. 

Dosage and administration for Cyclobenzaprine[edit source]

The recommended dosage in adults is 5 to 10 mg three times daily for 3 to 4 weeks.  Cyclobenzaprine is available in tablets of 5 and 10 mg in multiple generic forms and under the trade names of Flexeril, Flexamid and Amrix.  Extended release capsules of 15 and 30 mg are also available. 

FDA approval information for Cyclobenzaprine[edit source]

Cyclobenzaprine was approved for use in the United States in 1977 and it remains widely used with more than 10 million prescriptions filled yearly.  It is usually administered for limited periods of time. 

Side effects of Cyclobenzaprine[edit source]

Common side effects include sleepiness, dry mouth, dizziness and headache.

Muscle relaxants

Cyclobenzaprine Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD