Generic Zanaflex

Chemical Name: TIZANIDINE

Common uses

This medicine is a skeletal muscle relaxant used to treat muscle spasms associated with multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking rofecoxib. Inform your doctor and pharmacist of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Food can change the way your body absorbs and uses this medicine. Be sure to discuss this with your doctor to determine the best way to take your dose, especially when changes to your dose are being considered, or if you are being prescribed a different dose form of tizanidine (e.g., tablet or capsule).

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Do not stop taking this medicine without first checking with your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this medicine is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased to avoid side effects.

Before you have any medical or dental treatments, emergency care, or surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using this medicine.

This medicine may cause drowsiness. Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines cause drowsiness. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include drowsiness, dry mouth, flushing, or dizziness. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience increased muscle weakness; trouble urinating or lack of bladder control; or change in emotions, mood, or behavior. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe drowsiness, fainting, trouble breathing, and loss of consciousness.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions.

Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.