Flexeril

Flexeril is a prescription drug that is used to treat muscle spasms that are due to injuries or other muscle problems. This muscle relaxant comes in the form of a tablet that is typically taken three times a day and should only be used for two or three weeks at a time. Although most people tolerate the drug well, side effects can include a dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue.

 

What Is Flexeril?

Flexeril® (cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride) is a prescription muscle relaxant. It is meant to be used temporarily to treat muscle spasms due to injury or other muscle problems.
 
(Click Flexeril Uses for more information on what Flexeril is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Flexeril?

Brand-name Flexeril is made by McNeil Consumer & Specialty Pharmaceuticals. Generic Flexeril is made by several different manufacturers.
 

How Does Flexeril Work?

It is not clear as to how exactly Flexeril works to relieve muscle spasms. However, it is known that it mostly works in the brain stem, not in the spinal cord and not directly on the muscles. Flexeril only works to relieve muscle spasms caused by problems in the muscles; it does not help with muscle spasms caused by problems in the brain or spinal cord.
 

When and How to Take Flexeril

Some general considerations for when and how to take Flexeril include the following:
 
  • Flexeril comes in the form of a tablet. It is usually taken three times daily (although a less frequent dose may be recommended for elderly people or for people who have liver problems).
     
  • In general, Flexeril should only be used for two or three weeks at a time.
     
  • It does not matter if you take Flexeril with food or on an empty stomach. If it bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
     
  • Flexeril can cause significant drowsiness. Your healthcare provider may recommend that you take Flexeril only at night, especially if you need to be alert during the day.
     
  • For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Flexeril will not work if you stop taking it.
     
(Flexeril Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;