Monday, June 25, 2007

The Significance of using Cyclobenzaprine Drug


Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant. It works by blocking nerve impulses (or pain sensations) that are sent to your brain. It s a skeletal muscle relaxant and a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. It is used to relieve pain, tenderness, and limitation of motion caused by muscle spasms. The duration for taking this drug is basically for short term treatments that goes for 2 to 3 weeks. It is best to take this while resting or during physical therapy.

The exact mechanism of action for cyclobenzaprine is unknown. Current research appears to indicate that cyclobenzaprine acts on the locus coeruleus where it results in increased norepinephrine release, potentially through the gamma fibers which innervate and inhibit the alpha motor neurons in the ventral horn of the spinal cord.

The decreased firing of the alpha motor neuron results in reducing muscular tone. Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant acting primarily on the central nervous system. It is structurally similar to Amitriptyline, differing by only one double bond. Cyclobenzaprine is a weak inhibitor of presynaptic, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Skeletal muscle relaxant activity is due to brainstem mediated inhibition of gamma motor neurons

The standard side effects of Cyclobenzaprine includes drowsiness, depression, headaches, dizziness, and blurred vision. It's long term used has been associated with vision damage. Another side effects are dryness of the mouth, respiratory depression,decreased functionality in various muscles, and agitation ----which is a commonly found in elderly people.

Although allegedly obnoxious, cyclobenzaprine is moderately benevolent in case of overdose, depending on its toxicity level and also on the susceptibility of the user. Take note that the cyclobenzaprine damaging effects increases when used in conjunction with other drugs, particularly that deals with nervous system depressants and anti- depressants.

The use of cyclobenzaprine with an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) will possibly result in fatality. A case of rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) associated with its overdose has been reported in some scientific literatures. This is a rare but potentially fatal complication. Therefore, follow treatment protocols just as the same for any tricyclic anti- depressant.

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