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- What is metaxalone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
- What brand names are available for metaxalone?
- Do I need a prescription for metaxalone?
- What are the side effects of metaxalone?
- What is the dosage for metaxalone?
- Which drugs or supplements interact with metaxalone?
- Is metaxalone safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
- What else should I know about metaxalone?
What is metaxalone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Metaxalone is an oral drug that relaxes skeletal muscle the muscles that control movement of the body. It does not act directly on skeletal muscle, and the exact mechanism of action of metaxalone is unknown. Metaxalone relaxes muscles possibly by affecting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and by causing sedation. Metaxalone was approved by the FDA in 1962.
What are the side effects of metaxalone?
The most common side effects with metaxalone are:
- drowsiness,
- dizziness,
- headache,
- nervousness,
- irritability,
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- and upset stomach.
Other important, but less common, side effects include:
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
Quick GuideChronic Pain Syndrome: Treatment and Management for CPS
What is the dosage for metaxalone?
Metaxalone usually is taken at a dose of 800 mg, three or four times daily. Benefits are seen within one hour of ingestion. Food high in fat content increases the absorption of metaxalone.
Which drugs or supplements interact with metaxalone?
No important drug interactions have been described with metaxalone. Metaxalone may increase the sedative effects of alcohol and drugs that cause sedation, for example, benzodiazepines (Valium), antidepressants, opioids (morphine).
Is metaxalone safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Metaxalone has not been adequately studied in pregnant women.
NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known whether metaxalone is excreted in breast milk. Safety for use in the nursing mother has not been established.
What else should I know about metaxalone?
What preparations of metaxalone are available?
Tablets: 800 mg. STORAGE: Tablets should be stored at room temperature, 15-30 C (59-86 F).
Summary
Metaxalone (Skelaxin) is a drug that relaxes the skeletal muscle. The exact mechanism of action of metaxalone is unknown. Mexalone is prescribed as an adjunct to physical therapy for the treatment of short-term painful muscle and skeletal conditions. Side effects, drug interactions, dosing, and pregnancy information should be reviewed prior to taking this medication.
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You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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Chronic pain is pain (an unpleasant sense of discomfort) that persists or progresses over a long period of time. In contrast to acute pain that arises suddenly in response to a specific injury and is usually treatable, chronic pain persists over time and is often resistant to medical treatments.
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