Zanaflex
Tizanidine
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Zanaflex
Zanaflex is an alpha2-adrenergic receptor agonist and probably reduces spasticity by increasing presynaptic inhibition of motor neurons. The effects of Zanaflex are greatest on polysynaptic pathways and the overall effect of these actions is thought to reduce facilitation of spinal motor neurons. In animal models, Zanaflex has no direct effect on skeletal muscle fibers or the neuromuscular junction, and no major effect on monosynaptic spinal reflexes.
Zanaflex relieves the spasms and increased muscle tone caused by medical problems such as multiple sclerosis or spinal injury.
The chemical structure (imidazoline) of Zanaflex is related to that of the anti-hypertensive drug clonidine and other alpha2 -adrenergic receptor agonists. There are some pharmacological similarities in between the two medicines. But Zanaflex (Tizanidine) have one-tenth to one-fiftieth (1/50) of the potency of clonidine in lowering blood pressure.
Therapeutic Uses of Zanaflex
Zanaflex is a muscle relaxant and is used to help relax certain muscles. This medication is sometimes used for treatment of some other medical conditions as determined by your doctor. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any question about Zanaflex.
Direction of use of Zanaflex
Zanaflex comes as a tablet which is taken orally, usually 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.
If You Miss a Dose of Zanaflex
If you miss a dose of Zanaflex, you should take it as soon as you can remember it and take the remaining doses of that day as schedule. If it is almost time for the next dose you should skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed dose.
How to Store Zanaflex
Keep Zanaflex in the container it came in, tightly closed, away from heat, moisture and light. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. Do not store it in your bathroom. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication (follow the local rules of medicine disposal).
More Information About Zanaflex
- If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Zanaflex and seek emergency medical attention right away. The serious side effects of Zanaflex are hallucinations or abnormal behavior, liver damage (liver damage is manifested by yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, abdominal pain or abdominal discomfort, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe fatigue etc.), and an allergic reaction (the symptoms of allergic reaction are difficulty in breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives) to Zanaflex.
- Less serious and more common side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take tizanidine and talk to your doctor if you experience any of the less serious side effects of Zanaflex like weakness, drowsiness or dizziness, sweating, dry mouth, increased muscle tone or spasms etc.
- You may experience some other side effects which are not listed above. If you experience any side effect that is not listed above you should consult your doctor.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Zanaflex
- Before taking this medication, you should inform your doctor if you have liver disease, have kidney disease, have low blood pressure or you are on medication to treat high blood pressure or you are taking birth control pills etc. If you have any of the conditions listed above you may not be able to take Zanaflex, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment with Zanaflex.
- Zanaflex is listed in the FDA pregnancy C category. This means that it is not known whether Zanaflex will harm an unborn baby. But do not take this medication if you are pregnant, without first talking to your doctor. It is not known whether Zanaflex passes into breast milk. Do not take Zanaflex without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Possible Adverse Effects of Zanaflex
Side effects from Zanaflex can sometimes occur. You should inform your doctor if any of the following symptoms (side effects) 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.