Cyclobenzaprine is used short-term to treat muscle spasms. It is usually used in conjunction with rest and physical therapy. It works by helping to relax muscles. Flexeril does not act directly on muscles.
Instead, it works on the central nervous system, especially the brain stem, to relieve spasms. For most patients, the recommended dose of FLEXERIL is 5 mg three times daily. Depending on the patient's individual response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg three times a day. FLEXERIL is not recommended for use for periods longer than two or three weeks.
Cyclobenzaprine is most useful in cases of acute musculoskeletal pain and muscle spasms. It can be used occasionally for chronic pain, although it is less suitable for this type of pain (. Cyclobenzaprine is effective in relieving lower back and neck pain (6,. Patients suffering from fibromyalgia may find that cyclobenzaprine relaxes sore muscles and helps improve their sleep (.
In short-term studies for indications other than muscle spasm associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions, and generally at doses slightly higher than those recommended for skeletal muscle spasm, some of the more serious central nervous system reactions seen with tricyclic antidepressants have been occurred (see WARNINGS, below, and ADVERSE REACTIONS). Cyclobenzaprine HCl relieves locally occurring skeletal muscle spasms without interfering with muscle function. Cyclobenzaprine is used with rest, physical therapy, and other measures to relax muscles and relieve pain and discomfort caused by strains, sprains, and other muscle injuries.
