Medicine Information

Flexiril

Name: Flexiril
Brand: Flexiril
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet5 mgSkeletal Muscle RelaxantsATC: M03BX08

Generic Name

Cyclobenzaprine

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
flexiril 5 mg tablet	৳ 5.50	৳ 55.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Flexiril 5 mg Tablet contains Cyclobenzaprine, a skeletal muscle relaxant used to relieve muscle spasms associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions. It is typically used as an adjunct to rest and physical therapy for short-term use.

Uses & Indications

Relief of muscle spasm associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions.

Adjunct to rest and physical therapy.

Short-term treatment (up to 2-3 weeks).

Dosage

Adults

The usual dose is 5 mg three times a day. Based on individual patient response, the dose may be increased to 10 mg three times a day. Doses should not exceed 30 mg/day.

Elderly

Use with caution. Start with a lower dose (e.g., 5 mg once or twice a day) and titrate slowly due to increased risk of side effects.

Renal_impairment

Use with caution. No specific dose adjustment guidelines, but lower doses may be prudent.

Hepatic_impairment

Use with caution. Impaired hepatic function can significantly increase plasma concentrations. Avoid use in severe hepatic impairment.

How to Take

Take orally with or without food, as directed by your doctor. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.

Mechanism of Action

Cyclobenzaprine acts on the central nervous system to reduce skeletal muscle hyperactivity. It is believed to act primarily at the brain stem to produce its muscle relaxant effect, possibly by blocking polysynaptic reflexes without directly acting on the muscle or neuromuscular junction.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Onset of action within 1 hour.

Excretion

Excreted primarily through the kidneys as metabolites.

Half life

Elimination half-life ranges from 8 to 37 hours (mean 18 hours).

Absorption

Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in 1.5 to 8 hours.

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily via CYP3A4, CYP1A2, and CYP2D6 to inactive metabolites.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to cyclobenzaprine or any component of the formulation.
Concomitant use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI therapy.
Hyperthyroidism.
Congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, heart block or conduction disturbances.

Drug Interactions

Anticholinergics

May enhance anticholinergic effects like dry mouth, blurred vision, and urinary retention.

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

Cyclobenzaprine is structurally related to TCAs; concurrent use may increase the risk of anticholinergic side effects and CNS depression.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

Concomitant use can lead to hyperpyretic crises, convulsions, and death. Avoid use within 14 days of MAOI therapy.

CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, barbiturates, benzodiazepines)

May enhance CNS depressant effects, including drowsiness and dizziness.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C), away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include severe drowsiness, fast or irregular heartbeat, hallucinations, confusion, slurred speech, coma, and seizures. Treatment involves symptomatic and supportive measures. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered. Continuous ECG monitoring is recommended.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed. It is unknown whether cyclobenzaprine is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets (blister pack)30 tablets (blister pack)

Shelf Life

2 to 3 years from manufacturing date, check package for specific expiry.

Availability

Available in pharmacies and hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)

Patent Status

Off-patent (generics available)

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of cyclobenzaprine in reducing muscle spasm and associated pain in acute musculoskeletal conditions for short-term use.

Lab Monitoring

No routine laboratory monitoring is typically required for cyclobenzaprine use.

Doctor Notes

Emphasize short-term use (max 2-3 weeks) for acute conditions.
Counsel patients on potential for drowsiness and avoidance of alcohol/other CNS depressants.
Caution in elderly and patients with hepatic impairment due to increased risk of adverse effects.
Contraindicated with MAOIs and in certain cardiac conditions.

Patient Guidelines

Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness or dizziness.
Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.
Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor and do not exceed the recommended dose.
This medication is for short-term use only (usually up to 2-3 weeks).

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Driving Precautions

Cyclobenzaprine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision, which can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid such activities until you are sure you can perform them safely.

Lifestyle Advice

Cyclobenzaprine is an adjunct to rest and physical therapy. Follow your doctor's recommendations for rest and rehabilitation exercises to achieve the best results.