Muscle Relaxants

Question 1

Diazepam (Valium)

Answer 1

MECHANISM
Acts centrally in supraspinal centers/spinal intraneurons.

INDICATION
Muscle Spasm

SIDE EFFECTS
Drowsiness
Abuse can lead to withdrawl problems.

Question 2

Tizanidine (Zanaflex)

Answer 2

MECHANISM
Acts in the spinal cord as an adrenergic agonist.

INDICATION
Spasticity

SIDE EFFECT
Hypotension

Question 3

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)

Answer 3

MECHANISM
Acts at the level of the brain stem or spinal cord.

INDICATIONS
Temporary relief of local, acute muscle spasm.

SIDE EFFECTS
Similar to anti-depressants in that they can cause hypertensive crisis.
Tachycardia
blurry vission
dry mouth

Question 4

Baclofen (Lisresal)

Answer 4

MECHANISM
Inhibit release of neurotransmitters in the brain and spinal cord.

INDICATIONS
Spasticity

SIDE EFFECTS
Drowsiness
Increased seizures if the patient has epilepsy.

Question 5

Dantrolene (Dantrium)

Answer 5

MECHANISM
Acts locally on muscle fibers to block release of calcium.

INDICATIONS
Chronic spasticity

SIDE EFFECTS
Dizziness, drowsiness, diarrhea, toxic hepatitis, tachycardia and muscle weakness.