Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Metaxalone belongs to a group of drugs known as skeletal muscle relaxants, which are utilized in combination with rest, physical therapy, and other measures to ease muscle tension and alleviate pain and discomfort caused by muscle strains, sprains, and other injuries. Its mechanism of action involves blocking nerve impulses, including pain sensations, in the brain.
Uses and Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions and take this medication by mouth with or without food. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or use this drug more frequently or for a longer duration than recommended, as this will not expedite your recovery and may increase the risk of adverse effects.
If you experience side effects after consuming a high-fat meal, it may be beneficial to consume the medication on an empty stomach or after a light meal.
Your dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment.
Follow a special diet advised by your doctor or dietician to limit your intake of tyramine while taking this medicine to avoid a potentially serious high blood pressure reaction. Foods and beverages that are rich in tyramine, such as aged cheeses, dried or aged meats and sausages, preserved fish, products with high yeast content, fermented foods, most soybean products, broad/fava beans, red wine, sherry, tap beers, and vermouth, should be avoided. Consult your doctor or dietician for a comprehensive list of other tyramine-containing foods that you should restrict or avoid.
If your condition does not improve or worsens, inform your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- headache
- nervousness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- agitation
- hallucinations
- coma
- fast heart rate
- high body temperature
- muscle twitching, loss of muscle control
- nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- severe skin rash
- difficulty breathing
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- unusual bruising or bleeding
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- seizures
Caution
Prior to taking metaxalone, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or have any other allergies. This medication may include inactive constituents that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
Before using this medication, notify your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history, especially if you have liver disease, kidney disease, anemia, or seizures.
This drug may cause dizziness or drowsiness. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana may increase these effects. Refrain from operating machinery, driving, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until it is safe to do so.
Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this drug, particularly dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion, which can increase the risk of falling.
This medication should only be used during pregnancy if necessary. Discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.
It is unclear if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before nursing your infant.
Form and Strength
Skelaxin is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
metaxalone tablet:
- 400mg
FAQ
How long does it take Skelaxin to start working?
Most people start to feel some effects within an hour of taking Skelaxin. You should feel the full effects about 3 hours after your dose.
Does Skelaxin raise blood pressure?
Skelaxin does not increase blood pressure.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/metaxalone/what-is
- https://www.yashodahospitals.com/medicine-faqs/metaxalone/#:~:text=Does%20Metaxalone%20raise%20blood%20pressure,does%20not%20increase%20blood%20pressure
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7897/skelaxin-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/metaxalone-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20071948?p=1
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682010.html
- https://www.drugs.com/skelaxin.html
