Flexabenz Tab

FLEXABENZ TAB

FLEXABENZ TAB is a muscle relaxant manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd. It is prescribed for short-term relief of muscle spasms associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions.

Name

• Common Name: Cyclobenzaprine
• Brand Name: FLEXABENZ TAB

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Cyclobenzaprine (5 mg)

Uses

FLEXABENZ TAB is used to reduce and relieve muscle spasms or excessive muscle tension that occur in various acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions such as strains, sprains, back pain, and neck pain. It works by acting on the central nervous system at the brain stem, helping to relieve pain and improve muscle movements. It is typically used in conjunction with rest and physical therapy. FLEXABENZ TAB is generally intended for short-term use, usually for two to three weeks.

Dosage and Administration

• Adults: The typical dosage is 5 mg three times a day, which may be increased up to 10 mg three times daily, as advised by a doctor. The maximum recommended dosage is 60 mg per day. It should not be continued for more than 2-3 weeks.
• Elderly and Patients with Hepatic Impairment: Treatment should be initiated with a lower dose of 5 mg with less frequent dosing.
• Administration: FLEXABENZ TAB should be taken orally, with or after food, to minimize stomach upset. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not be chewed, crushed, or broken.
• Pediatric Use: Not recommended for children below 15 years of age.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness/Sleepiness
• Tiredness/Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Heartburn

Serious but rare side effects can include fast or irregular heartbeat, severe drowsiness, seizures, and allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing). If any severe side effects occur, immediate medical attention should be sought.

Precautions

• Contraindications: Do not take FLEXABENZ TAB if you are allergic to cyclobenzaprine, have hyperthyroidism, certain heart conditions (such as heart rhythm disorder, recent heart attack, heart block, or congestive heart failure), or have taken an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it may increase drowsiness and other side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is generally advised to avoid unless the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: FLEXABENZ TAB can cause dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment, cardiac disease, epilepsy, history of mania, psychoses, or close-angle glaucoma.
• Overdose: Symptoms of overdose may include vomiting, severe drowsiness, tremors, fast heartbeats, hallucinations, or agitation. Seek medical help immediately if an overdose is suspected.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, especially CNS depressants, antihypertensives, and synthetic opioids like tramadol, as interactions can occur.

Storage

Store FLEXABENZ TAB below 30°C in a clean and dry place. Protect it from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep this medicine out of the reach and sight of children.

Flexabenz Tablet, manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd, contains the active ingredient Cyclobenzaprine. It is a muscle relaxant commonly prescribed for short-term relief of muscle spasms associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions.

What is Flexabenz Tablet used for?

Flexabenz Tablet is primarily used as a muscle relaxant to reduce and relieve muscle spasms, stiffness, pain, and discomfort. It is prescribed for conditions such as strains, sprains, back pain, and neck pain, and is generally used in conjunction with rest and physical therapy for short periods, typically two to three weeks.

How does Flexabenz Tablet work?

Flexabenz Tablet works by acting on the central nervous system, specifically at the brain stem and spinal cord. Its active ingredient, cyclobenzaprine, helps relieve muscle spasms and improves muscle movements by reducing the abnormal activity in the brain and blocking pain sensations sent to the brain.

What is the usual dosage for Flexabenz Tablet?

For adults, the typical recommended dosage is 5 mg taken three times daily. This can be increased up to 10 mg three times daily, depending on the condition and doctor's advice. Treatment with Flexabenz Tablet should generally not exceed 2-3 weeks. For elderly patients, it is advised to start with 5 mg at less frequent intervals. A maximum daily dosage of 60 mg should not be exceeded. Dose adjustments may be necessary for patients with liver impairment.

What are the possible side effects of Flexabenz Tablet?

Common side effects of Flexabenz Tablet include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, tiredness, headache, constipation, blurred vision, nausea, and heartburn. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor. Less common but serious side effects can include fast or irregular heartbeat, severe drowsiness, seizures, and allergic reactions.

Is Flexabenz Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: Flexabenz Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless specifically prescribed by a doctor, who will weigh the potential benefits against the risks. There is limited safety data available, and some sources suggest potential risks to the fetus.

Breastfeeding: Small amounts of Flexabenz Tablet may pass into breast milk. It is usually advised to consult a doctor before taking this medicine while breastfeeding, as its safety during lactation is not fully established and it may be considered unsafe.

Can Flexabenz Tablet be taken with other medications?

Flexabenz Tablet can interact with various other medications. It should not be taken with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI, as this combination can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening reactions such as serotonin syndrome or MAOI toxicity. Additionally, combining Flexabenz with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants like alcohol, opioids (e.g., tramadol), benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam), gabapentinoids, and certain antihistamines can increase drowsiness and slow breathing. It can also interact with tricyclic antidepressants, SNRIs, and some migraine medications, potentially increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome. Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking.

What precautions should be taken while using Flexabenz Tablet?

Several precautions should be observed when taking Flexabenz Tablet:

• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol, as it can significantly increase drowsiness and dizziness.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: Due to potential dizziness and drowsiness, do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have underlying conditions such as liver or kidney impairment, heart disease (e.g., recent heart attack, arrhythmias, congestive heart failure), hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, urinary retention, epilepsy, or a history of psychiatric illnesses like mania or psychoses.
• Children: Flexabenz Tablet is generally not recommended for individuals under 15 years of age.
• Discontinuation: Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly if you have been on it for a long period, without consulting your doctor.

What happens if a dose of Flexabenz Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of Flexabenz Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

How should Flexabenz Tablet be stored?

Flexabenz Tablet should be stored in a clean, dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat, ideally below 25°C or 30°C. Keep the medicine out of reach and sight of children. Do not use the tablets after their expiry date.