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Online Information on Zanaflex

Generic name: Tizanidine

Tizanidine belongs to a group of medicines called muscle relaxants. When muscles in your body spasm, cramp, or become tight due to medical problems such as multiple sclerosis or spine injury, the condition is known as spasticity . Muscle relaxants like tizanidine and baclofen are used to treat this condition. They work by blocking excess firing of the nerve cells that control muscle movement. Your doctor may choose to use this medication for other conditions not listed here. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, please ask your doctor.

The benefits of tizanidine are related to its effects on the nervous system. The beneficial effects of tizanidine are noticeable within about one hour of taking the first dose.

Zanaflex Dosage

• To minimize side effects, the doctor is likely to begin with a dosage of 4 milligrams, then increase the dose gradually. Doses of 8 milligrams provide relief for most people. No more than 3 doses should be taken each 24 hours. The maximum dose per day is 36 milligrams.

Always take tinazidine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Uses of Zanaflex

• Zanaflex is used to treat increased muscle tone associated with spasticity.
• Zanaflex may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Side Effects of Zanaflex

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Zanaflex. Side effects may include:

• Abnormal movements, blurred vision, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, flu-like symptoms, frequent urination, low blood pressure, nervousness, runny nose, slow heartbeat, sore throat, speech disorders, urinary and other infections, vomiting, weakness or fatigue .

Warnings and precautions before taking Zanaflex:

• Remember that Zanaflex can cause low blood pressure and should be used with caution if you are taking blood pressure medication. Be cautious, too, when first standing up. Dizziness and light-headedness are especially likely at that time.
• It is not known whether Zanaflex passes into breast milk. Do not take Zanaflex without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
• You'll need a reduced dose of Zanaflex if you have a kidney problem. Be sure to inform the doctor about your condition, and be quick to report side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, and weakness. They could be signs that your dose is too high.
• Use caution with alcohol, other muscle relaxants, sleep or anxiety medicines, and pain medicines. These drugs may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Zanaflex. Do not take any other medicine during treatment with Zanaflex without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

Drug Interaction :- Alcohol, or any drug that slows the nervous system (including other drugs taken for spasticity), increases the likelihood of drowsiness when taken with Zanaflex.

Overdose

An overdose of Zanaflex can impair breathing and lead to coma. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency treatment immediately. Symptoms of a Zanaflex overdose are not well known but include unconsciousness and irregular breathing.