- What is metaxalone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
- 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 brand names are available for metaxalone?
Skelaxin
Do I need a prescription for metaxalone?
Yes
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:
- rash,
- anemia,
- low white blood cell count,
- jaundice, and
- allergic reactions
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
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.
Related Disease Conditions
- Muscle Cramps Muscle cramps are involuntarily and forcibly contracted muscles that do not relax. Extremely common, any muscles that have voluntary control, including some organs, are subject to cramps. Since there is such variety in the types of muscle cramps that can occur, many causes and preventative medications are known. Stretching is the most common way to stop or prevent most muscle cramps.
- Pain Management The goal of pain management for each patient is to minimize suffering and improve quality of life. This goal may be different depending on the patient’s circ*mstances and disease or injury.
- Sprains and Strains An injury to a ligament is called a sprain, and an injury to muscle or tendon is called a strain. Sprains and strains may be caused by repetitive movements or a single stressful incident. Symptoms and signs include pain and swelling. Though treatment depends upon the extent and location of the injury, rest, ice, compression, and elevation are key elements of treatment.
- Muscle Pain Muscle pain (myalgia, myofascial pain syndrome) is pain in the body's soft tissues due to injury or strain. Symptoms include muscle pain with tender points and fatigue. Treatment usually involves physical therapy, massage therapy, or trigger point injection.
Treatment & Diagnosis
Medications & Supplements
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References
Medically reviewed by John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP; Board Certified Emergency Medicine
REFERENCE:
FDA Prescribing Information
