Commonly Abused Muscle Relaxers
Medically reviewed by
Joseph Sitarik, DOFebruary 4, 2019
When used properly, muscle relaxers can help treat cerebral palsy, strains or sprains, tension headaches, spinal cord injuries, low neck or back pain, traumatic brain injuries, and even multiple sclerosis. However, these useful medicines can quickly become a problem when used improperly or abused. Fortunately, there are many treatment facilities available that can help individuals get back on track to living a sober and happy lifestyle.
Temporary Relief
Muscle relaxants do not work directly on our muscles, but on the brain and thus are full body relaxants. As a result, muscle relaxers only offer a temporary alleviation for pain. Patients may also experience, euphoria, calmness, and physical and emotional pleasure.
Patients that abuse muscle relaxants may take more than what is prescribed or may even mix their prescription with alcohol or other medications to intensify the high. However, it is not uncommon for muscle relaxants to be abused alone.
Most Commonly Used And Abused Muscle Relaxers
All types of muscle relaxers have some form of sedative property. The most common muscle relaxants abused include:
- Tizanidine (Zanaflex)
- Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)
- Baclofen (Lioresal)
- Dantrolene (Dantrium)
- Methocarbamol (Robaxin)
- Carisoprodol (Soma)
- Metaxalone (Skelaxin)
- Chlorzoxazone (Paraflex)
- Orphenadrine (Norflex)
- Diazepam (Valium)
Introducing
virtual care
Get treatment when
and how you need it.
Abuse Facts And Side Effects
Prescriptions for muscle relaxers are easier to obtain than prescriptions for narcotics. This makes it easier for those addicted to getting their fix. Quitting muscle relaxers can result in withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, hallucinations, seizures, anxiety, and tremors.
Beyond withdrawal symptoms, all forms of muscle relaxers are sedative and cause feelings of drowsiness or dizziness. Each muscle relaxer also has its own unique side effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to understand what side effects you may expect from a specific muscle relaxer.
Like many prescription medications, muscle relaxants can become addictive. Abusing any drug can result in serious injury or even death.
Contact Us
Struggling from addiction to muscle relaxers can feel like an uphill battle. On one hand, you are seeking relief for your symptoms, but on the other, you know that they only offer a temporary solution. Contact us today at RehabCenter.net, and we’ll help you find the right treatment or rehab facility to get your life back on track.
