In this Article

• What are muscle cramps?
• What are the types and causes of muscle cramps?
• Do all muscle cramps fit into the above categories?
• Can medications cause muscle cramps?
• Can vitamin deficiencies cause muscle cramps?
• Can poor circulation cause muscle cramps?
• What are the symptoms of common muscle cramps? How are they diagnosed?
• What is the treatment of skeletal muscle cramps?
• How can muscle cramps be prevented?
• Are there medications to prevent muscle cramps?
• What is the prognosis of recurrent muscle cramps?
• Muscle Cramps At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Muscle Cramps - Effective Treatments
• Muscle Cramps Glossary
• Muscle Cramps Index

Are there medications to prevent muscle cramps?

In recent times, the only medication that has been widely used to prevent, and sometimes also to treat, cramps is quinine. Quinine acts by decreasing the excitability of the muscles. It has also been shown to be effective in many, but not all, scientific studies. However, quinine also causes birth defects and miscarriages. It has also occasionally caused hypersensitivity reactions and a deficiency of platelets, which are the blood components responsible for clotting. Either of these reactions can be fatal. Quinine is also associated with a cluster of symptoms called cinchonism (nausea, vomiting, headaches, and deafness). Additionally, vision and heart irregularities can occur. Consequently, quinine tablets are not available in the United States. Quinine is available in grocery stores in tonic water. Consult your physician before taking quinine for cramps.

What is the prognosis of recurrent muscle cramps?

Although cramps can be a great nuisance, they are a benign condition. Their importance is limited to the discomfort and inconvenience they cause, or to the diseases associated with them. Careful attention to the preceding recommendations will greatly diminish the problem of cramps for most individuals. Those with persistent or severe muscle cramps should seek medical attention.

Muscle Cramps At A Glance

• A muscle cramp is an involuntarily and forcibly contracted muscle that does not relax.
• Almost everyone experiences a muscle cramp at some time in their life.
• There are a variety of types and causes of muscle cramps.
• Numerous medicines can cause muscle cramps.
• Most muscle cramps can be stopped if the muscle can be stretched.
• Muscle cramps can often be prevented.

Previous contributing authors: Daniel Gornel, MD, MPH, and Rich Weil, MEd, CDE

REFERENCE:

Fauci, Anthony S., et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Professional, 2008.

Muscle Cramps - Effective Treatments

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What kinds of treatments have been effective for your muscle cramps?

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