Generic name:tizanidine [ tye-ZAN-i-deen ]
Drug class:Skeletal muscle relaxants
What is Zanaflex?
Zanaflex is a short-acting muscle relaxer. It works by blocking nerve impulses (pain sensations) that are sent to your brain.
Zanaflex is used to treat spasticity associated with diseases like multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries by temporarily relaxing muscle tone.
Zanaflex may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Zanaflex is a short-acting medication that should be taken only for daily activities that require relief from muscle spasticity.
You should not take tizanidine if you are also taking fluvoxamine (Luvox) or ciprofloxacin (Cipro).
Do not use Zanaflex at a time when you need muscle tone for safe balance and movement during certain activities. In some situations, it may endanger your physical safety to be in a state of reduced muscle tone.
Switching between Zanaflex tablets and capsules, or changing the way you take it with regard to eating, can cause an increase in side effects or a decrease in therapeutic effect. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. After making any changes in how you take Zanaflex, contact your doctor if you notice any change in how well the medicine works or if it causes increased side effects.
Do not take more than three doses (36 mg) of tizanidine in a 24-hour period. Too much of tizanidine can damage your liver. Cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, other muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by tizanidine. Tell your doctor if you need to use any of these other medicines together with Zanaflex.
Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of tizanidine.
