Methocarbamol
Indications
Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant used for short-term relief of pain and stiffness from acute, painful muscle and bone conditions, such as back strain, muscle spasm, sprains and similar injuries. It is used together with rest, physiotherapy and other measures. An injectable form is also used in hospital, including as part of tetanus treatment.
How It Works
Methocarbamol acts on the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system) to calm nerve signals that keep muscles tight. It does not act directly on the muscles. Its relaxing effect is probably linked to its general sedative action.
Dosage and Administration
Adults: a common dose is 1,500 mg four times a day for the first 2 to 3 days, then reduced to about 750 mg to 1,000 mg three or four times a day, or as prescribed. Older people may need lower doses. It is usually used for a short time only. It can be taken with or without food. Injections are given by a doctor or nurse. Not usually recommended for children under 16 unless prescribed.
Interactions
Alcohol and other medicines that cause drowsiness (sleeping pills, Benzodiazepines, opioid painkillers, some antihistamines, antidepressants) can greatly increase sleepiness. It may reduce the effect of Pyridostigmine in people with myasthenia gravis. Tell your doctor about all medicines.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Methocarbamol or any ingredient, or if you are in a coma or pre-coma, have brain damage, epilepsy, or myasthenia gravis. The injection is not used in people with kidney disease because of an ingredient it contains.
Side Effects
Drowsiness, dizziness, light-headedness, blurred vision, headache, nausea and stomach upset are the most common. Urine may turn brown, black or green on standing; this is harmless. Less often, rash, itching, low blood pressure, slow heartbeat, confusion or jaundice can occur.
Get urgent medical help if you have a severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing), fainting, a very slow heartbeat, seizures, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or severe drowsiness.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Methocarbamol is not recommended during pregnancy, especially early pregnancy, unless the doctor decides it is clearly needed. It is not known whether it passes into breast milk; ask your doctor before using it while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Do not drive, operate machinery or do dangerous tasks if you feel drowsy or dizzy. Avoid alcohol. Use with care in liver or kidney disease and in older people, who may be more prone to falls. It is meant for short-term use.
Overdose
Overdose, especially with alcohol or other sedatives, can cause severe drowsiness, nausea, low blood pressure, seizures and coma. Seek emergency medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Methocarbamol