Posted by webmut on March 26, 2004 at 14:11:31:
Skelaxin is a skeletal muscle relaxant used to relieve the pain of muscle injuries, spasms, sprains, and strains. Skelaxin is recommended as a supplement to physical therapy, rest, or other treatments your doctor may recommend, and it will not replace these treatments. Do not overuse injured muscles while under the effects of Skelaxin, as this may result in further injury and a prolonged recovery time.
Skelaxin is only available by prescription.
Skelaxin Side Effects
Mild Skelaxin Side Effects: Blurred or double vision, clumsiness, dizziness, drowsiness, faintness, or lightheadedness are the most common side effects, but are not usually a cause for concern. Less common, though not generally dangerous, side effects include abdominal cramps, confusion, excitement or restlessness, flushing, headache, heartburn, hiccups, insomnia, irritability, irritable bowel, weakness.
Serious Skelaxin Side Effects: Bloody urine, bloody or black stools, chills, cough, depression, difficult urination, difficulty breathing, eyes that are red, bloodshot, or stinging, fainting, fast breathing, fever, hives, itching, paradoxical muscle cramping, racing heartbeat or tightness in the chest, rash, sore throat, sores in mouth, stuffy nose, swelling around eyes, swollen or tender glands, unusual fatigue, unusual weakness, vomiting bloody or black material, yellow eyes or skin. These side effects range from uncommon to rare, but should you experience any of them while taking Skelaxin, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately.
Cautions: This medication may not be an appropriated treatment for all individuals, or your doctor may want to take certain precautions while you are using Skelaxin. Be especially sure to discuss such considerations with your doctor if you have a history of any of the following:
* Allergies: If you have ever had an allergic reaction to Skelaxin or another skeletal muscle relaxant, be sure to inform your doctor. This medication may not be right for you.
* Blood disease caused by reaction to a medication: This condition may be worsened.
* Diabetes: Skelaxin can cause false results in certain urine tests for sugar levels. Inform laboratory personnel or your doctor in advance of a test.
* Epilepsy: Related drugs have been known to cause convulsions. Though the risk of Skelaxin causing a convulsion is extremely small, there is the potential that drugs of the same class can cause similar reactions.
* History of drug abuse or dependence: While Skelaxin may produce mild physical withdrawal symptoms, it is not generally a drug of abuse. Addiction prone individuals should still be cautious with this treatment and discuss the issue with their doctors.
* Kidney or liver disease: Your doctor will determine if this medication is safe for you depending on your condition, but will likely suggest less frequent dosing if prescribed.
* Porphyria: This is not a safe medication for porphyria, you will need to use another treatment.