Metaxalone
Indications
- Skelaxin is a prescription medication used to relieve muscle pain and discomfort caused by strains, sprains, or other muscle injuries.
- It is commonly prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include rest, physical therapy, and other measures to alleviate muscle pain.
- Skelaxin works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain and nervous system that help to relax muscles.
- It is typically used for short-term treatment, usually no more than 3 weeks, to help manage acute muscle pain.
- Skelaxin may also be prescribed off-label for other conditions or purposes as determined by a healthcare provider.
- It is important to follow the dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist when taking Skelaxin.
Dosage and administration
Dosage:
- The usual dosage of Skelaxin (metaxalone) is 800 mg taken orally three to four times daily.
- It is recommended to take Skelaxin with food or milk to minimize the risk of stomach upset.
- The total daily dosage should not exceed 3200 mg.
- Your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage based on your response to treatment and individual medical needs.
Administration:
- Take Skelaxin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water.
- Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets before swallowing.
- Skelaxin is typically used for short-term treatment, usually no more than 3 weeks.
- If you miss a dose of Skelaxin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
- Do not take double doses of Skelaxin to make up for a missed dose.
- Store Skelaxin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the dosage or administration of Skelaxin.
Side effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Upset stomach
- Dry mouth
- Nervousness
- Irritability
- Shakiness
- Blurred vision
- Feeling jittery
- Inability to sit still
- Rash
- Itching
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored stools
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
These side effects are not necessarily experienced by everyone using Skelaxin, and some individuals may experience other side effects not listed here. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking Skelaxin, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
Precautions
- Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of liver or kidney disease before taking Skelaxin.
- Let your healthcare provider know about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions with Skelaxin.
- Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how Skelaxin affects you, as it may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision.
- Limit the consumption of alcohol while taking Skelaxin, as it may increase the risk of drowsiness or other side effects.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before taking Skelaxin, as the safety of this medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established.
- Use caution when taking Skelaxin if you have a history of substance abuse or dependence, as it may have the potential for abuse.
- Do not stop taking Skelaxin suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms.
- Store Skelaxin at room temperature away from moisture and heat and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
- If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Skelaxin, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
