Metaxalone
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Muscle Relaxant
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Metaxalone
Summary
Metaxalone is used to ease discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions such as strains, sprains, and other muscle injuries. It is typically used with rest, physical therapy, and other measures to help relax muscles and reduce pain.
Metaxalone acts as a muscle relaxant by slowing down activity in the central nervous system. This helps to relax muscles and alleviate pain and discomfort associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions. It does not directly affect muscle contraction but works through its sedative properties to provide relief.
The usual daily dose of Metaxalone for adults and children aged 13 years and older is 800 mg, taken three to four times a day. This can be administered as two 400 mg tablets or one 800 mg tablet per dose. Always follow the prescribed dosage and do not exceed the recommended amount.
Common side effects of Metaxalone include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, and nausea. Serious adverse effects, though rare, can include serotonin syndrome, allergic reactions, and liver issues. If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, rash, or yellowing of the skin or eyes, seek medical attention immediately.
Metaxalone can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which can impair activities requiring alertness. It is not recommended for individuals with severe renal or hepatic impairment, known hypersensitivity to its components, and those with a history of drug-induced anemia. Caution is advised when used with other CNS depressants or serotonergic drugs due to the risk of serotonin syndrome.
Indications and Purpose
How does Metaxalone work?
Metaxalone acts as a muscle relaxant by slowing down activity in the central nervous system. This helps reduce muscle tension and discomfort, allowing the body to relax. It does not directly affect the muscles but works through its sedative properties to relieve pain.
Is Metaxalone effective?
Metaxalone is used as an adjunct to rest and physical therapy to relieve discomfort from acute musculoskeletal conditions. It works by slowing nervous system activity, allowing muscles to relax. Clinical studies and patient reports support its effectiveness in reducing muscle pain and discomfort.
What is Metaxalone?
Metaxalone is a muscle relaxant used to relieve discomfort from acute musculoskeletal conditions like strains and sprains. It works by slowing down activity in the nervous system, allowing muscles to relax. It's typically used alongside rest and physical therapy for effective pain management.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Metaxalone?
Metaxalone is typically used for short-term relief of muscle discomfort associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions. The exact duration of use should be determined by a healthcare provider based on the individual's condition and response to treatment.
How do I dispose of Metaxalone?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Metaxalone?
Metaxalone can be taken with or without food, but taking it with a high-fat meal may increase its absorption. Follow your doctor's instructions on dosage and timing. There are no specific food restrictions, but avoid alcohol as it can enhance drowsiness caused by the medication.
How long does it take for Metaxalone to start working?
Metaxalone typically starts working within a few hours after taking a dose. The exact time can vary based on individual factors like metabolism and whether it's taken with food. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about its effectiveness or onset of action.
How should I store Metaxalone?
Store Metaxalone in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not store it in the bathroom, and dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program if available.
What is the usual dose of Metaxalone?
The usual daily dose for Metaxalone in adults and children aged 13 years and older is 800 mg taken three to four times a day. This can be administered as two 400 mg tablets or one 800 mg tablet per dose.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Metaxalone with other prescription drugs?
Metaxalone can interact with serotonergic drugs, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome. It also interacts with CNS depressants like alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids, enhancing sedative effects. Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid interactions.
Can Metaxalone be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no data available on the presence of Metaxalone in human or animal milk, or its effects on the breastfed infant. Consider the benefits of breastfeeding along with the mother's need for Metaxalone and any potential risks to the infant. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Can Metaxalone be taken safely while pregnant?
There is no available data on Metaxalone use in pregnant patients to evaluate the risk of birth defects or miscarriage. Animal studies have not shown fetal harm, but the safety in humans is not established. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice if pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Does Metaxalone have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects caused by a medicine. Metaxalone can cause some adverse effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and irritability. These are not very common, but they can happen. Rarely, it can cause serious effects like severe allergic reactions, which need immediate medical attention. If you notice any new or worrying symptoms, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider before stopping the medicine.
Does Metaxalone have any safety warnings?
Metaxalone comes with safety warnings. It can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. It may also affect liver function, so watch for symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe fatigue, and report these to your doctor. Alcohol can increase drowsiness, so it's best to limit or avoid it while taking Metaxalone. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Metaxalone?
Drinking alcohol while taking Metaxalone can increase the risk of drowsiness and impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving. Alcohol can enhance the sedative effects of Metaxalone, making it unsafe to consume alcohol while on this medication.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Metaxalone?
Metaxalone may cause drowsiness and dizziness, which could affect your ability to exercise safely. It's important to understand how the medication affects you before engaging in physical activities. If you feel impaired, avoid strenuous exercise and consult your doctor for guidance.
Is it safe to stop Metaxalone?
Metaxalone is used for symptomatic relief of muscle pain and discomfort, often for temporary or acute conditions. Stopping it suddenly is generally safe, as it does not cause withdrawal symptoms or life-threatening risks. However, if you stop taking it, your muscle pain or discomfort may return. It's always best to consult with your doctor before stopping any medication to ensure it's the right decision for your health needs.
Is Metaxalone addictive?
Metaxalone is not known to be addictive. It does not have habit-forming potential, meaning it doesn't cause physical or psychological dependence. You don't need to worry about addiction with this medicine. However, it's always important to use it as prescribed by your healthcare provider and not to exceed the recommended dose.
Is Metaxalone safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the central nervous system depressant effects of Metaxalone, such as drowsiness and dizziness. It's important to monitor them closely for these effects, especially when starting the medication or adjusting the dose. Consult a doctor for personalized advice.
What are the most common side effects of Metaxalone?
A side effect is an unwanted effect of a medicine. Common side effects of Metaxalone include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and irritability. These are not very common, but they can happen. When starting a new medicine, people might experience new symptoms that could be unrelated or temporary. It's important to talk to your healthcare provider before stopping any medicine, even if you experience side effects.
Who should avoid taking Metaxalone?
Metaxalone is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to its components, severe renal or hepatic impairment, and certain types of anemia. It can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants. Monitor for serotonin syndrome if used with serotonergic drugs.
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