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Brand Name: Zanaflex
Generic Name: Tizanidine
(tye zan' i deen)
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Why is zanaflex prescribed?
Zanaflex (Tizanidine), 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.
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How should zanaflex be used properly?
Tizanidine (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 tizanidine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
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What special precautions should I follow when using zanaflex?
Before taking tizanidine,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to tizanidine 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 tizanidine, call your doctor immediately.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking tizanidine.
- 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 this drug.
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What should I do if I forget a dose of zanaflex?
You should take the missed dose of zanaflex just as soon as you remember to take it. Unless, it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of your medication to make up for a missed one.
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What side effects can zanaflex cause?
Side effects from tizanidine can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- tingling sensation in the arms, legs, hands, and feet
- increased muscle spasms
- upset stomach
- dry mouth
- dizziness
- vomiting
If you experience either of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- unexplained flu-like symptoms
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
» top What storage conditions are needed for zanaflex?
Always keep the zanaflex in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom.
Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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What do I do in case of emergency or an zanaflex overdose?
In case of a zanaflex overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.
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What other information should I know about zanaflex?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to tizanidine.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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