Muscle spasms can be a painful symptom that may occur as an isolated phenomenon or as part of another problem such as nerve disorders. If they are part of a syndrome, the best treatment may be aimed at treating the underlying condition. There are several drugs to treat the muscle spasms themselves. Two tend to be preferred in most cases. The others are available as well, but have higher rates of side-effects such as addiction or liver problems
Cyclobenzaprine
According the "Physician's Desk Reference," cyclobenzaprine is one of the most frequently used muscle relaxants. Its mechanism of action is unclear, but may involve the release of chemical in the brain that signal the muscles to relax. The drug is generally not used in the elderly, those with heart problems, glaucoma or seizure disorders. Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, increased pressure in the eyes and urinary retention.
Methocarbamol
Methocarbamol is also thought to act on the central nervous system to produce skeletal muscle relaxation. Some of the more common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, gastrointestinal upset, nausea, constipation, headaches, fever and blurred vision. It is also a high-risk drug for the elderly.
Diazepam
Diazepam is a medicine that acts on the brain and spinal cord to relax the muscles. Diazepam is commonly prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders, as well as insomnia, alcohol withdrawal and seizures. It can be habit forming. Since it has significant addiction potential, it is typically not used for muscle spasms as frequently as the two medications above. The drug is generally avoided in children under age six and in patients with some form of glaucoma, and should be used with caution in the elderly and those with organ dysfunction, particularly the heart and lungs. It can cause drowsiness, fatigue and dependence.
Other drugs exist for the treatment of muscle spasms, but are not used as commonly due to a higher risk of adverse affects. (See Reference 1 and 2)
References
- "PDR: Physicians Desk Reference 2009 "; PDR Staff; 63rd Ed 2009
- "The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy"; Mark H. Beers et al; 18th Ed. 2006
