Flexeril, known generically as cyclobenzaprine, is a muscle relaxant used to treat skeletal muscle injuries, such as strained or pulled muscles. Flexeril works by blocking the nerve impulses transmitted to your brain, telling you you're in pain. While generally tolerated well by those who take it, there are side effects, some serious, that can cause severe health complications. For seniors, it can be difficult to distinguish the difference between some of these side effects and certain health conditions they may already suffer from; this requires careful monitoring.
Common Side Effects
According to the medical professionals of eMedTV.com, the most common side effects of Flexeril--reported by up to 39 percent of patients--include dry mouth, dizziness and drowsiness.
Additional Common Side Effects
Less serious side effects occur in 1 to 3 percent of seniors, including a general feeling of weakness, constipation and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Patients also feel nervous for no apparent reason, suffer from fatigue, feel nauseous, experience bouts of indigestion, become confused and suffer from blurred vision.
Serious Side Effects
Consult your doctor immediately if you find you faint, develop arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms), tachycardia (rapid heart rate) heart palpitations (a rapid, forceful heartbeat) or low blood pressure, experience seizures, suffer from anxiety or hallucinations, become agitated easily or find it difficult to pass urine.
Rare Side Effects
While less than 1 percent of seniors suffer from these rare side effects: hot flashes, diarrhea, flatulence (gas), vertigo (a spinning sensation), insomnia, increased perspiration, tinnitus (ringing of the ears), loss of appetite and excessive thirst. Some patients also experience problems with balance or coordination, tremors, double vision or a loss of the sense of taste.
Side Effects on the Liver
Flexeril can affect your liver and may cause liver damage when used long-term. Signs of liver damage include pain in the upper-right area of your abdomen, yellowing of the skin or eyes and a darkening of the urine.
Signs of Allergic Reaction
Swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat, an unexplained rash or hives and difficulty with breathing or swallowing indicate an allergic reaction and require immediate medical attention.
Signs of Overdose
An overdose of Flexeril can be fatal. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, slurred speech, nausea, hallucinations, seizures, drowsiness, tremors, confusion, vomiting and chest pain.
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