Methocarbamol

FDA indications: Methocarbamol is used to ease muscle spasms and discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions.

Fibromyalgia:

• Dosing: Methocarbamol is typically prescribed at 1,500 mg 3-4 times per day during the initial phase and may be reduced to 750 mg every 4 hours or 1,000 mg 4 times per day as symptoms improve.
• The goal is to relieve muscle pain and tension while minimizing side effects.

Muscle Spasms in Neurological Disorders (Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy):

• Dosing: The initial dose is usually 1,500 mg 3-4 times per day. Once symptoms improve, the maintenance dose may be adjusted to 750 mg every 4 hours or 1,000 mg 3-4 times daily.
• The dose is tailored to reduce muscle spasms without causing excessive sedation.

Spasticity:

• Dosing: The typical dose for managing spasticity is 1,500 mg 3-4 times per day initially, with adjustments based on symptom control. Maintenance doses can be reduced to 750-1,000 mg every 6 hours.
• This helps to alleviate muscle stiffness and spasms in conditions like spinal cord injuries.

• Those with a known sensitivity or allergy to methocarbamol.
• Those with a history of seizures or epilepsy.
• Those with severe kidney impairments.
• Pregnant, planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding (it's not known whether methocarbamol harms the baby).

• Methocarbamol can cause drowsiness and dizziness so avoid driving or using heavy machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• Do not drink alcohol while you are taking methocarbamol as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness.
• If your symptoms persist, talk to your doc for further advice.

You might feel:

• sleepy
• dizzy
• lightheaded

Severe allergic reactions: Symptoms can include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.

Seizures: Though uncommon, methocarbamol can increase the risk of seizures in specific individuals, especially those with a history of seizures.

Low blood pressure (hypotension): Methocarbamol can cause a significant drop in blood pressure, leading to symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.

Slowed heart rate (bradycardia): Methocarbamol may slow down your heart rate, which can lead to severe cardiovascular problems.

Confusion or memory problems: In rare cases, methocarbamol can cause mental confusion, disorientation, or memory issues, particularly in older adults.

Liver damage: Prolonged use of methocarbamol, particularly at high doses, may affect liver function. Symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or severe abdominal pain could indicate liver problems.

Drowsiness and dizziness: Methocarbamol can cause significant drowsiness, dizziness, or sedation. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or doing activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you.

Alcohol use: Drinking alcohol while taking methocarbamol can increase the sedative effects, leading to heightened drowsiness or dizziness. It’s best to limit or avoid alcohol while on this medication.

Seizure risk: Methocarbamol may increase the risk of seizures in people with a seizure disorder. If you have a history of epilepsy or other seizure conditions, inform your doctor before starting this medication.

Liver or kidney impairment: Methocarbamol can affect liver and kidney function, especially in people with pre-existing liver or kidney problems. Your doctor may adjust the dose or monitor your liver and kidney health if you have these conditions.

Use in elderly patients: Older adults are more sensitive to the effects of methocarbamol, particularly dizziness, sedation, or confusion. Careful monitoring and lower doses may be necessary.

• Codeine
• Morphine
• Alcohol
• Benzodiazepines (like diazepam, lorazepam)

• Cyclobenzaprine
• Tizanidine
• Baclofen
• Carisoprodol
• Metaxalone