Why is Zanaflex prescribed?

Zanaflex, a muscle relaxant, is used to help relax certain muscles in your body. It relieves the spasms and increased muscle tone caused by medical problems such as multiple sclerosis or spinal injury. Zanaflex is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should Zanaflex be used?

zanaflex comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken two or three times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Zanaflex exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking Zanaflex,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to zanaflex or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including other medications that cause drowsiness, medications for high blood pressure, oral contraceptives, and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking zanaflex, call your doctor immediately.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking zanaflex.
• you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by Zanaflex.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can Zanaflex cause?

Side effects from zanaflex can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• dizziness
• upset stomach
• vomiting
• tingling sensation in the arms, legs, hands, and feet
• dry mouth
• increased muscle spasms

If you experience either of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• unexplained flu-like symptoms

What storage conditions are needed for Zanaflex?

Keep Zanaflex in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to zanaflex.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.