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Uses of Zanaflex

Zanaflex is a muscle relaxant. Zanaflex works by blocking nerve impulses (or pain sensations) that are sent to your brain. Zanaflex is used to treat increased muscle tone associated with spasticity. Zanaflex may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

How to take Zanaflex

Take Zanaflex exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Zanaflex is usually taken several times a day. Follow your doctor's instructions. Do not take more than three doses of Zanaflex--or more than 36 mg--in 24 hours. Too much Zanaflex can damage your liver.

Nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, unusual weakness or dry mouth might occur. If these continue or are bothersome, notify your doctor. To minimize dizziness, stand up slowly when arising from a sitting or lying position. Notify your doctor if you develop: yellowing skin or eyes, stomach pain, vomiting, hallucinations. Very unlikely but report: vision or hearing changes, urinary frequency or burning, slow or irregular heartbeat, black stool. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. 

Before taking this drug, tell your doctor if you have: any allergies, low blood pressure, liver or heart disease, kidney disease, eye disease. Limit the use of alcohol as alcohol may intensify the dizziness and drowsiness effects of this drug. 

Zanaflex may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine unless your doctor approves. Birth control pills can increase the effects of Zanaflex. Tell your doctor if you are taking birth control pills before starting treatment with Zanaflex. Zanaflex may lower blood pressure. Tell your doctor if you are taking another medicine to lower blood pressure or a medicine to treat another heart condition. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Zanaflex. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose are not well known but include unconsciousness and irregular breathing.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.