In the United States, the use of Flexeril has been discontinued. Similar alternatives are available if the FDA has approved generic versions of this product.
Flexeril is a tricyclic muscle relaxant. It functions by preventing our nerves from sending pain signals to our brains. A muscle relaxant called Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) is given for extremely tight muscular spasms and pain and discomfort associated with a muscle injury. Along with physiotherapy and rest, it is frequently used in the short term to help treat injuries. It treats injuries like tendon or ligament sprains and muscle strains.
Why was Flexeril discontinued? The brand name for the medication is Flexeril. Now, it’s no longer available. However, cyclobenzaprine and the term are still frequently used interchangeably (the generic name). Both the generic version and the Amrix brand are accessible in extended-release form.
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Effects and misuse of Flexeril
The trade name Flexeril is used to promote cyclobenzaprine. It is a prescribed muscle relaxant related to the tricyclic antidepressant medication class. The generic version was initially licensed in 1977. After that, it is offered for the immediate and delayed release. Usually, physical treatment is combined with it.
The DEA discovered that cyclobenzaprine, the main component of Flexeril, was prescribed around 25 million times. Back pain is frequently treated with this drug as a muscle relaxant. Compared to other painkillers, Flexeril is thought to be far less addictive. The active ingredient in Flexeril is cyclobenzaprine, an ingredient in several other drugs.
Flexeril affects the central nervous system to produce its effects. It aids in preventing the brain from receiving pain signals that would otherwise be sent from aching and tense muscles. This pain-blocking technique may encourage drug use and increase the risk of Flexeril addiction.
Patients who have severe muscle pain may find this medication more useful. Patients taking Flexeril can sleep better, move more efficiently, and feel more energized. The medicine can have various adverse and perhaps dangerous effects in addition to these positive ones. Any of the following may be among these negative effects, which can differ in severity from mild to severe:
- Drowsiness
- Mouth ache
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Distorted vision
- Confusion
- Reflux of acid
- Continent pain
- Fever
- Nervousness
- Issues with urination
Overdose is another possible side effect of using too much of the medicine “Flexeril.” Due to Flexeril’s calming benefits, people continue to take it even though it doesn’t have the same euphoric high as other drugs. Many will raise their doses to enhance those benefits.
Serious health issues like cardiac arrest, low blood pressure, and seizures can result from a Flexeril overdose. Convulsions, heart attacks, depression of the central nervous system, and even death can happen. Chest discomfort, hallucinations, nausea, a rapid heartbeat, slurred speech, breathing difficulties, and excessive sleepiness are all symptoms of an overdose.
When Flexeril is mixed with other medicines, like alcohol or benzodiazepines, the danger of an overdose is enhanced. Extreme sleepiness and respiratory depression may result from this combo. Nevertheless, a lot of Flexeril addicts combine the drugs anyhow to boost their intoxication.
A program for addiction treatment may be an option for people abusing Flexeril or mixing it with other drugs. People prescribed the medication should talk to their doctor about stopping it.
Flexeril addiction treatment centres can help us understand the reasons for our compulsive use of Flexeril. Detoxification, individual and group counseling, medical monitoring, and aftercare preparation are frequently included in treatment.
Flexeril withdrawal
Moreover, due to the medications’ similar to Flexeril, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that people who use them may suffer withdrawal symptoms from tricyclic antidepressants. There aren’t any complaints about this happening, though. Symptoms of tricyclic antidepressant discontinuation include:
- Chills
- Muscle pain
- Insomnia
- Sweating
- Anxiety
- Agitation
- Irritability
The withdrawal effects from Flexeril are rarely harmful. However, some people could find them unpleasant and keep taking the medication to feel better. Dependent individuals may have withdrawal symptoms.
A person’s body adjusts to the drug’s presence when they use it for a prolonged time. Numerous physiological processes change, and the body starts to depend on the medication to function normally over time. Dependence is what this is.
A dependent individual may experience these withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms may occur if they stop using the medicine or have their dosage decreased.
Addiction and dependence are entirely different. However, they usually go together. The brain undergoes considerable alterations as a result of drug addiction. It is characterized by solid cravings and persistent drug-seeking behavior despite the effects.
There is little information available about Flexeril addiction and dependence. Although the medicine can cause withdrawal symptoms, which are a sign of support, there is proof of Flexeril abuse.
No drugs have been approved, particularly for treating Flexeril withdrawal. To reduce the symptoms, a doctor in a treatment program may provide medical assistance and a range of practical pharmaceutical measures. American Addiction Centers has a solid working relationship with many insurance providers.
How is Flexeril abused by people – Is it still prescribed?
Flexeril doesn’t have the same power as other prescription painkillers. But, it nevertheless has the potential to cause illusions. Abuse of Flexeril might cause the user to experience sedation and relaxation.
Additionally, cyclobenzaprine has the potential to produce a euphoric high. Flexeril is not a narcotic, but when misused or combined with other medications, it can be pretty harmful. It is simple to dissolve in alcohol or crush and inhale it, which enhances the Flexeril high.
Despite its serious potential for abuse, cyclobenzaprine is not frequently used unlawfully. Flexeril doses used recreationally will be closer to 20–80 mg. Flexeril is prescribed in 5- to 10-mg doses. The most frequent adverse reactions from cyclobenzaprine use in recreational situations are drowsiness and a feeling of relaxation.
Muscle relaxation and a sense of flying are possible effects of the Flexeril high. According to the DEA, most people who abuse Flexeril do so by combining it with other drugs, whether they are legal or not. This is due to the way that cyclobenzaprine strengthens the effects of many CNS depressants, including:
- Alcohol
- Alcohol
- Benzodiazepines
- Opioid relievers
Those of us who are allergic to cyclobenzaprine shouldn’t take Flexeril. In addition, we should not use the drug whether we suffer from congestive heart failure, thyroid disease, a heart block, a heart rhythm issue, or a recent heart attack.
The pharmacy may use the generic name “cyclobenzaprine” more frequently since the brand Flexeril has been removed from the US market. It should be very reasonable.
Conclusion
Inactive components in Flexeril may cause allergic responses. Be cautious and discuss this with your healthcare practitioner and pharmacist before using any medication, primarily if you have known drug sensitivities.
Many patients discovered that they were using Flexeril to treat a co-occurring disorder as self-medication. By reducing some or all of their symptoms, the medicine aids in treating their mental health condition.
Nearly half of those who have addictions also have co-occurring disorders. When treating a habit, it is never proper to ignore co-occurring conditions. Treatment for dual diagnoses enables simultaneous management of both illnesses. This makes it easier for the patient to understand how they are related, which usually results in better long-term results.