Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Cyclobenzaprine

Cyclobenzaprine: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is cyclobenzaprine?

Cyclobenzaprine belongs to the class of drugs called cyclic antidepressants. The FDA-approved drug acts centrally on the brain and relieves skeletal muscle pain. It does not have any direct action on the skeletal muscle. Cyclobenzaprine causes muscle relaxation and antispasmodic effects by declining the tonic somatic motor activity through the gamma and alpha motor systems, thus acting as skeletal muscle relaxants. It is recommended to be used only for a few weeks. 

What are the uses of cyclobenzaprine?

The tricyclic amine salt acts on the central nervous system and reduces muscle hyperactivity. Clinically, it is used to treat acute skeletal muscle spasms and painful musculoskeletal conditions such as fibromyalgia and myofascial pain due to temporomandibular joint disorder. Cyclobenzaprine is also used for the treatment of neuropathic pain, migraine prophylaxis, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is prescribed to relieve pain and discomfort in sudden muscle pain caused by strains, sprains, or injuries.

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    What are the side effects of cyclobenzaprine?

    Common side effects

    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Tiredness
    • Dry mouth
    • Heartburn (acidity)
    • Constipation
    • Dizziness (a sensation of losing balance)
    • Headache
    • Stomach upset
    • Appetite loss

    Serious side effects

    • Tachycardia (increased heart rate)
    • Mydriasis (dilation of the pupils of the eye)
    • Seizures
    • Blurred vision
    • Confusion
    • Feeling agitated

    The majority of side effects associated with cyclobenzaprine resolve on their own and do not require any medical intervention. However,  contact your doctor if you experience severe side effects.

    What is Cyclobenzaprine

    Uses of Cyclobenzaprine

    Side effects of Cyclobenzaprine

    References

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Cyclobenzaprine

    Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant drug that acts on the centrally mediated skeletal muscles by blocking nerve impulses and relieves pain, discomfort, and stiffness originating from injuries, sprains, and strains. Cyclobenzaprine also acts by reducing the hyperactivity of the muscles and thus it produces antispasmodic effects.

    The duration a drug (including muscle relaxer) will stay in your body depends on the half-life (the time when 50% of the drug from circulation is eliminated) of the drug and in around 7 half-lives, almost all the drug is considered to be eliminated. Consult our team of expert medical doctors for the best muscle relaxant for you.

    Yes, in adults, a 10 mg dosage of cyclobenzaprine given three times a day can produce the maximum effect in 3-4 days. However, the dosage should not be above 60 mg per day because it can lead to more toxic side effects. The drug should be taken in consultation with your doctor.

    Although cyclobenzaprine has the potential to be a habit-forming drug, it should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. Usually, it is prescribed for a short term, long-term use can lead to drug dependency. Abrupt discontinuation of this drug is also not recommended because it can cause side effects, such as nausea and vomiting.

    There is very limited data to support any evidence of cyclobenzaprine being an immunosuppressant. Existing studies do not report any immunosuppressive action of the drug. Cyclobenzaprine acts centrally through the motor pathway and relieves pain; hence, there is no involvement of the immune system mediators in the way cyclobenzaprine works.

    maximum concentration in the blood in approximately 6 to 8 hours and the effect weans off in around 12 to 24 hours. Hence, you can feel sleepy for around 12-24 hours after taking cyclobenzaprine.

    Cyclobenzaprine is a derivative of the class of tricyclic antidepressants. It is known to produce a depressing effect on the central nervous system by acting on the monoamine oxidase pathway, which causes its sedative effects. However, it should not be used as an antidepressant drug without the consultation of your doctor.

    Even though some studies state that drinking coffee can reduce the metabolism of cyclobenzaprine, some researchers have noted that taking caffeine along with the drug will improve its muscle relaxing properties and decrease drowsiness, thereby making the patient more awake. Consult our team of medical experts for the best opinions on the use of cyclobenzaprine.

    There is very limited data to support any ill effects of cyclobenzaprine on the kidneys. The drug is primarily removed from your body through the liver and a very limited amount is excreted through the kidneys. However, if you experience any kidney-related side effects, consult your doctor.

    Cyclobenzaprine is considered to exert its effect by interfering with the serotonin transmission in the spinal cord. Studies have shown that concentration of serotonin, especially when taken along with drugs such as duloxetine and phenelzine. Cyclobenzaprine has also been reported to produce serotonin syndrome (hyperactive movement).