When a person suffers from pain or cramping in his muscles, his physician may prescribe a muscle relaxing medication rather than a direct pain reliever. These types of drugs typically work upon the central nervous system to make the muscles less tense and to keep them from having spasms or cramps. In most cases, exercise, rest or physical therapy are recommended as well for a full recovery, according to the Mayo Clinic. Muscle relaxers typically are prescribed for short-term use.
Carisoprodol
The generic name of this commonly used muscle relaxer is carisoprodol. It is marketed in the United States under the brand names Vanadom and Soma. Carisoprodol comes in the form of a pill and may be taken as many as three times a day and at bedtime under the direction of a physician. The Mayo Clinic reports it is a skeletal muscle relaxant. There are no reported common serious side effects of carisoprodol, but common and non-serious side effects include drowsiness, dizziness and headaches, Drugs.com states. These symptoms most often end on their own within a few days after treatment with the drug starts.
Cyclobenzaprine
Cyclobenzaprine is sold in the United States with the brand names of Flexeril, Fexmid and Amrix. It is a prescription-level medicine that usually is taken two to four times a day under the direction of a doctor. It may be used, the Mayo Clinic states, for discomfort, stiffness and pain associated with muscle injuries, sprains and strains. There also are no common serious side effects reported for cyclobenzaprine. Common temporary and non-serious side effects may include blurry vision, dizziness, dry mouth and drowsiness. The person using cyclobenzaprine should contact her physician if these problems are severe or persist more than a few days, Drugs.com recommends.
Baclofen
Baclofen is the generic name of a drug marketed in the United States under the brand name Lioresal. The medication generally is prescribed for people with spinal injuries, multiple sclerosis and trigeminal neuralgia to help relieve muscle tightness, pain, cramps and spasms, the Mayo Clinic reports. It also may be used in the treatment of other conditions. Common non-serious and temporary side effects of baclofen may include pain in the back, diarrhea, fatigue, nausea and itching.
