What it means
A centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant used with rest and physical therapy for painful muscle spasm after a strain or injury. It is related in structure to the tricyclic antidepressants, so it causes drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth and constipation. It is meant for 2 to 3 weeks of use.
For the nurse
Teach the client not to drive or drink alcohol until they know how it affects them. The Beers Criteria advise avoiding it in older adults, because of confusion, falls and sedation. It should not be combined with MAO inhibitors.
At a glance
| Drug class | skeletal muscle relaxant |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Amrix, Fexmid; Flexeril (former brand) |
| Also written | Flexeril, Amrix, Fexmid |
Related terms
dizziness
A feeling of being lightheaded, unsteady or off balance, or that the room is spinning.
skeletal muscle
Muscle attached to bones that a person moves by choice, such as the muscles of the arms and legs.
low back pain
Pain in the lower part of the back, between the bottom of the ribs and the buttocks.