| name | Tizanidine |
| classification | Centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant |
| pharmacokinetics | Tizanidine is rapidly absorbed following oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are typically achieved within 1-2 hours. The drug is primarily metabolized in the liver via CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 pathways. Tizanidine's half-life is approximately 2-3 hours. Excretion is primarily via the kidneys. |
| suggested dosage | | initial | 2 mg orally three times daily, increased gradually to a maximum of 36 mg per day as needed based on the patient's response and tolerance. | | male patient 25 70kg | A starting dose of 2 mg orally three times daily may be appropriate. Dosage adjustments should be made under the supervision of a healthcare professional. | | important note | Dosage and duration of treatment must be individualized to meet the specific needs of the patient and should be carefully monitored. |
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| indications | Tizanidine is primarily used to relieve muscle spasms associated with: Spasticity resulting from multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, and stroke. It may also be used in other conditions where muscle spasms are present, like fibromyalgia or other musculoskeletal disorders. However, its use should be appropriate and guided by a medical professional. |
| safety in pregnancy | Tizanidine is a category C drug. There are animal studies showing adverse effects, but adequate and well-controlled human studies are not available. Tizanidine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. The doctor should carefully consider the benefits and risks of the treatment in the context of the specific needs and situation of the patient. |
| safety in breastfeeding | It is not known whether tizanidine is excreted in human milk. Due to the potential for adverse effects in the nursing infant, the use of tizanidine during breastfeeding is generally not recommended unless the benefit to the mother clearly outweighs the potential risk to the infant. Consult a healthcare professional before using this medication. |
| side effects | | 1 | Drowsiness | | 2 | Fatigue | | 3 | Dry mouth | | 4 | Headache | | 5 | Nausea | | 6 | Constipation | | 7 | Orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure when standing) | | 8 | Liver enzyme abnormalities | | 9 | Increased heart rate | | 10 | Diarrhea | | 11 | Sweating |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity or allergy to tizanidine | | 2 | Severe liver disease | | 3 | Severe kidney disease | | 4 | Concurrent use of MAO inhibitors (must be 14 days apart). |
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| interactions | Tizanidine may interact with other medications, particularly those that are metabolized by the liver. Important interactions include, but are not limited to, drugs that inhibit or induce CYP1A2 or CYP3A4 enzymes. Patients should inform their doctor about all medications they are taking. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Patients with a history of liver disease should be monitored carefully. | | 2 | Patients with a history of blood pressure problems should be monitored carefully | | 3 | May cause drowsiness or dizziness, avoid operating machinery or driving until the effect of the drug is known. | | 4 | Do not discontinue the drug abruptly, dosage should be gradually decreased. | | 5 | Do not exceed the recommended dose |
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| additional information | Regular monitoring of blood pressure and liver function tests may be necessary during treatment. Inform your doctor about any other medical conditions or allergies you may have. This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. |
