Muscle relaxant

Muscle relaxants are a group of medicines that have the ability to relax or reduce tension in muscles. They are used to alleviate symptoms such as muscle spasms, pain, and hyperreflexia. The two main types of muscle relaxants are neuromuscular blockers and spasmolytics.

Neuromuscular blockers

Neuromuscular blockers are used in anesthesia and intensive care, during surgery, and in the treatment of certain neuromuscular disorders. They work by causing a temporary paralysis of the muscles.

Spasmolytics

Spasmolytics, also known as "centrally acting" muscle relaxants, are used to alleviate musculoskeletal pain and spasms and to reduce muscle spasticity in neurological conditions.

Mechanism of action

Muscle relaxants work by acting on the central nervous system and altering its signals to the skeletal muscles. They do not act directly on the muscles; rather, they act centrally (in the brain) and are more of a total body relaxant.

Side effects

Common side effects of muscle relaxants include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and vomiting. Some muscle relaxants also have addictive properties.

See also

• Neuromuscular-blocking drug
• Spasmolytic

References

Muscle relaxant Resources
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