When it comes to treating muscle spasms, Zanaflex is a known name in the book. Its generic name is tizanidine. It functions by preventing the brain from receiving nerve signals that cause pain. By momentarily lowering the muscular tone, Zanaflex is used to alleviate spasticity brought on by conditions including multiple sclerosis (MS) and other spinal cord injuries. Here is what one should know about before they plan to buy Zanaflex.
Mechanism
Alpha-2-adrenergic receptors are stimulated by the drug Zanaflex (tizanidine hydrochloride). It apparently lessens spasticity by boosting motor neurons’ presynaptic inhibition. Tizanidine has the best impact on polysynaptic circuits. It is believed that these acts will lessen the stimulation of spinal motor neurons generally.
Zanaflex has been demonstrated in placebo-controlled and double-blind, clinical studies to significantly reduce the symptoms of spasticity without inducing muscle weakness, which can prevent patients from doing regular daily activities. Additionally, there was no indication of any withdrawal effects in the reported adverse effects. Certain currently endorsed treatment plans can be characterized by both weakness and possible withdrawal side effects.
Dosage
Consume Zanaflex exactly as instructed by the physician. To ensure optimum results, the doctor will occasionally adjust the dose. Use of this medication outside of the specified range advised is not advised.
Typically, Zanaflex is used up to three times a day. Between doses, provide 6 to 8 hours. Never take more than the prescribed dosage (36 mg) in a day. This drug can harm one’s liver if taken in excess. Take the medication consistently every time, whether taken with food or not. Changing how it is consumed—either with meals or without—can reduce its effectiveness or raise its negative effects. Talk to the local pharmacist to know the Zanaflex prices.
Things to keep in mind
Zanaflex is a quick-acting drug that should only be used to treat muscle spasticity during routine everyday activities. When one is also taking ciprofloxacin or fluvoxamine (Luvox), then one shouldn’t take tizanidine (Cipro).
Use caution when taking Zanaflex if there is a need for muscular tone for stable balance and mobility during specific activities. In some circumstances, having low muscle tone may put physical safety in jeopardy.
Zanaflex side effects may worsen or its therapeutic benefit can be diminished if one switches between its tablet and capsule versions or how patients take it with food. In 24 hours, one should not take more than 3 doses of the medication. Zanaflex overdose can harm the liver. It can make one feel sleepy, but so can narcotic painkillers, sleeping tablets, other muscle relaxants, and medications for seizures, depression, or anxiety.
Side effects
Some of the common side effects are:
- Fatigue, vertigo, and weakness
- Oral dryness
- Feeling tense
- Fuzzy eyesight
- A cold-like illness
- Congestion and a sore throat
- Issues with urination and painful urination
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or
- Involuntary muscle actions
Some of the more serious side effects are:
- A sense of approaching faintness or lightheadedness
- Shallow or feeble breathing
- Hallucinations and confusion
- The skin or eyes become yellow
- Urination causes pain or burning
Although no research on humans has been conducted to show any particular results, it might be addictive. Zanaflex withdrawal effects have been described after discontinuing the drug suddenly, however simultaneous drug usage was generally assumed in such cases. To prevent any withdrawal symptoms, the dosage should be decreased gradually.
