Methacarbamol
Methacarbamol is a prescription drug that comes as an oral tablet and an oral capsule. Methacarbamol oral tablet is available as a brand-name drug Zanaflex. It’s also available as a generic drug. Generic drugs usually cost less than the brand-name version. In some cases, they may not be available in all strengths or forms as the brand-name drug.
DESCRIPTION
Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxer. It works by blocking nerve impulses (or pain sensations) that are sent to your brain.Methocarbamol is used together with rest and physical therapy to treat skeletal muscle conditions such as pain or injury.Methocarbamol injection is sometimes used in the treatment of tetanus, (lockjaw) which causes painful tightening of the muscles.
Uses
How to use Methocarbamol
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Take methocarbamol exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Methocarbamol is only part of a complete treatment program that may also include rest, physical therapy, or other pain relief measures.
Methocarbamol oral is taken by mouth. You may need to reduce your dose after the first 2 or 3 days of treatment. Carefully follow your doctor's dosing instructions.Methocarbamol injection is injected into a muscle or given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.The injection is usually given as a single dose before you start taking the oral form.
Tell your doctor if you notice increased use of this medication, a worsening of headaches, an increase in the number of headaches, the medication not working as well, or use of this medication for more than 2 headache episodes a week. Do not take more than recommended. Your doctor may need to change your medication and/or add a separate medication to prevent the headaches.
Dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Muscle Spasm
ORAL : Initial Dose: 1500 mg orally 4 times a day
-Doses of 6000 mg per day are generally used for the first 48 to 72 hours
-In severe cases, doses up to 8000 mg per day may be used
Maintenance dose:
500 mg tablets: 1000 mg orally 4 times a day
750 mg Tablets: 750 mg orally every 4 hours OR 1500 mg orally 3 times a day
Usual Adult Dose for Tetanus
Initial dose: 1 to 2 g IV followed by an additional 1 to 2 g via IV infusion
Maximal Initial Dose: 3 g
Repeat initial IV dose every 6 hours until NG tube or oral therapy is possible
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness/dizziness, seizures, loss of consciousness.
Missed Dose
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. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Side Effect
Drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, stomach upset, nausea/vomiting, or blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fainting, slow heartbeat, yellowing eyes/skin, persistent nausea/vomiting, mental/mood changes (such as confusion, forgetfulness).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.