Cyclobenzaprine Hydrochloride (or Hcl) is a commonly prescribed muscle relaxant and antidepressant. While the drug carries some potential for abuse, it is regulated as a prescription drug, but not classed as a controlled substance. Risk for dependency is decidedly low, as is danger of overdose, although special care should be taken to never mix Cyclobenzaprine Hcl with any monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOI, for risk of hyperserotonemia. Any questions related to contraindications between medications should be addressed to your physician or pharmacist.
Uses
Cyclobenzaprine Hcl is commonly used both as a muscle relaxant and a maintenance medication in the treatment of depression. Recent studies have also shown that the medication has some efficacy as an alternative "female Viagra." The most common prescriptive use of is as a muscle relaxant. Additionally, Cyclobenzaprine Hcl has been successfully prescribed to treat patients suffering from fibromyalgia.
Common Brand Names
Cyclobenzaprine Hcl is currently marketed under the brand names Flexeril (available in 5 and 10mg tablets), Fexmid (7.5mg tablet), and the extended-release, daily-dose medication Amrix (15 and 30mg capsules). Cyclobenzeprine Hcl with the corresponding formulation would be the generic equivalent. (i.e. "cyclobenzeprine hcl 5mg tab" for Flexeril 5mg tab.)
Potential Drug Interactions
Cyclobenzeprine has been known to interact negatively with alcohol and any central nervous system depressants, tricyclic antidepressants and, as mentioned above, any monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. Discuss current medications with your physician or pharmacist to reduce the risk of a negative drug interaction.
Abuse
Cases of abuse involving Cyclobenzeprine Hcl are not uncommon, though the drug is not considered by the DEA to require regulation further than that which applies to basic prescription drugs. Cyclobenzeprine Hcl is non-narcotic, and therefore not a scheduled class of controlled drug.
Common or Possible Side Effects
Side effects associated with the use of Cyclobenzaprene Hcl include agitation (common in elderly patients), blurred vision, depression, drowsiness, dryness of mouth, headaches and severe dizziness.
Tags: muscle relaxant, your physician pharmacist, Cyclobenzaprine Hydrochloride, monoamine oxidase, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, oxidase inhibitors