Skelaxin (Metaxalone)

What is Skelaxin?

Skelaxin is a muscle relaxant.

What is Skelaxin used for?

Skelaxin is administered to patients suffering from severe musculoskeletal conditions. This drug is used in combination with physical therapy and proper rest.

How does Skelaxin work?

Skelaxin works by blocking nerve impulses in the brain, which decreases muscle pain associated with injuries, spasms and strains.

How to use Skelaxin

Skelaxin should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended can cause health problems.

Skelaxin is usually taken once daily. This medicine is has to be taken orally three to four times a day depending on your doctor’s prescription. The medicine can be taken with your meal or afterwards. 

The medication is for two or three weeks at most. You should consult your doctor if your condition does not improve within this period.

Skelaxin warnings and precautions

Do not use this drug if you are allergic metaxalone. It is best to inform your doctor about your allergies before continuing with this medication as this drug contains ingredients which may harm you. 

Prior to taking Skelaxin, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, or a history of low blood counts. You should also provide all information related to your medical history especially those related to your liver and kidneys.

The drug causes drowsiness therefore you should avoid activities that require intense concentration like driving. To avoid drowsiness, you should get up slowly from the sitting and prone positions. Consumption of alcohol should be avoided at all cost.

The elderly should be extra careful while using this drug as it causes dizziness.     

Pregnant women should not use this drug without consulting their doctors as it may cause harm to a fetus. If you plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor in advance. Also intimate your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Lactating women should not use this drug unless prescribed by the doctor.

What do I do if I have missed a Skelaxin dose?

If you have missed your Skelaxin dose you can take the missed dose within the next hour. If it is not possible carry on with the schedule, but, do not double the dose to catch up.

What do I do if I have taken a Skelaxin overdose?

If you have taken a Skelaxin overdose, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Skelaxin interactions

Before taking Skelaxin, consult your doctor if you are taking drugs that induce drowsiness such as antihistamines, anti-anxiety drugs, anti-seizure drugs, narcotic pain relievers, anti-depressants and tranquilizers. You should always check the label to check the drug composition to be on the safe side.     

Prior to taking Skelaxin, tell your doctor about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use. Also, do not start taking any new medication without telling your doctor. This drug may also cause positive results in certain diabetic testing procedures; therefore, you should let your doctor know in advance if you are going for such procedures.

Skelaxin side effects

Skelaxin side effects include hives, nausea, vomiting, breathing trouble, low fever, stomach ache, jaundice, dark colored urine and stools, swelling of face, tongue, lips or throat, and other allergic reactions. If you get any of these side effects after using Skelaxin, contact your doctor right away.

Headache, dizziness, mild nausea, upset stomach, feeling nervous or irritable are some less serious side effects of Skelaxin.