Zanaflex vs Flexeril: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you

People who misuse cyclobenzaprine might gradually develop a tolerance, meaning they need higher doses to achieve the desired effects, which increases the risk of addiction. Moreover, abrupt cessation of the drug after prolonged misuse can result in withdrawal symptoms, further highlighting its potential for dependency. Flexeril can interact with serotonergic drugs like antidepressants and MAO inhibitors. Taking these drugs with Flexeril can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a condition that requires immediate medical attention. Overall, the study found that these drugs are comparable in efficacy and safety. Other guidelines suggest that muscle relaxants cause increased drowsiness and should only be used short-term.

This is a very dangerous practice that can quickly lead to addiction or overdose. It is important to get help overcoming substance abuse with the help of a hospital based detox program. With the right help, individuals can leave cyclobenzaprine abuse in the past and move toward a more balanced life in recovery. It is possible to overdose on cyclobenzaprine, which can lead to dangerous symptoms. One of those is rhabdomyolysis, which is the breakdown of muscle tissue from toxins that the kidneys can no longer process. The condition can also be caused by damage to the muscle fibers directly, causing them to break down and release their contents into the blood.

Overall rating for Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)

Cyclobenzaprine is a centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant structurally related to tricyclic antidepr[7]essants. Cyclobenzaprine relieves skeletal muscle spasms of local origin without interfering with muscle function. In preclinical research, cyclobenzaprine reduced skeletal muscle hyperactivity. Research indicates that it primarily acts within the central nervous system in the brain stem. In a small number of people, cyclobenzaprine and methocarbamol can cause more serious adverse effects such as allergic reactions with severe rash, swelling, and trouble breathing.

I was still in a daze, and I didn’t take any more of the drug. I did drink some alcohol when it was offered to me, and the strangest thing happened. I was sitting on the sofa in the living room, and after some time, I couldn’t move my legs. They didn’t hurt at all, but it was like the connection between my legs and my brain had been severed. I slept there until the morning, at which point, I was still groggy, but at least I could move my legs. Getting high on Flexeril is kind of like being on a vacation.

Pain in the butt – Daily Bulldog

Pain in the butt.

Posted: Wed, 02 Nov 2016 07:00:00 GMT [source]

For example, the peak concentration for the extended-release pills is around seven hours. People with heart conditions, especially previous heart attacks, blockages, heart rhythm issues, or congestive heart failure, should not take cyclobenzaprine. Within the last five years, emergency room department visits related to muscle relaxant abuse almost doubled; they increased from 15,830 to 31,763 visits. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur.

Signs of Cyclobenzaprine Addiction

Older adults appear to have a higher risk for CNS-related adverse reactions, such as hallucinations and confusion, when using cyclobenzaprine. Withdrawal symptoms have been noted with the discontinuation of chronic cyclobenzaprine use. Use of a medication taper may be warranted for chronic-use patients. People with glaucoma, increased eye pressure, liver disease, and difficulty urinating may not react well to this particular muscle relaxer. Women who are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding shouldn’t take cyclobenzaprine.

Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, or herbs you’re taking. To find out how this drug might interact with something else you’re taking, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. It’s not considered a dangerous method of getting rid of specific muscular pain. It is given to patients who are more likely to abuse opiate pain killers and is considered less risky for abuse and addiction.

• This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
• It was initially approved in 1996 for the treatment of muscle spasticity.
• Cyclobenzaprine reduced or abolished skeletal muscle hyperactivity in several animal models.

Another telltale sign of Flexeril addiction is abusing the medication in combination with another substance to produce a greater sense of euphoria. Alcohol is commonly abused alongside muscle relaxers like Flexeril because the can i take valium and flexeril together substances amplify each others’ effects, causing the individual to experience a more intense sedation or high. In patients with CNS depression, early intubation is advised because of the potential for abrupt deterioration.

Flexeril High: Why This Muscle Relaxer is Creating Dependency

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Our insomnia treatment program has helped over 2,000 users beat their insomnia & sleep better. Join the thousands of people that have called a treatment provider for rehab information.

About three hours in, I started having some visual hallucinations. I thought I saw someone standing in my bedroom, and it looked like a child. I kept seeing bright flashes of light that were gone before I could even register that I had seen them. At that point, I needed it, and I slept for seven hours straight.