Information About Skelaxin

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

SKELETAL MUSCLE RELAXANTS - ORAL

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Parafon Forte DSC, Robaxin, Skelaxin

USES: This medication relaxes muscles and relieves pain and discomfort associated with strains, sprains, spasms or other muscle injuries.

HOW TO USE: May be taken with food or immediately after meals to prevent stomach upset. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or take it for a longer period of time than prescribed by your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS: May cause stomach upset, heartburn, constipation, headache, dizziness or drowsiness the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become severe, notify your doctor. Inform your doctor if you develop: persistent stomach pain, skin rash, itching, rapid heart rate, yellowing of eyes or skin. May discolor urine. This will disappear when the medication is stopped. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: seizures, kidney or liver disease, any drug allergies. Alcoholic beverages may increase the dizziness/drowsiness effects of this drug. Limit alcohol intake. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or operating machinery. When arising quickly from a sitting or lying position, this drug may cause dizziness/lightheadedness. Change positions slowly. This medication should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you take including any medication such as: sedatives, tranquilizers, narcotics (pain medication), sleeping pills, medication for seizures, depression, allergies, hay fever, colds. Do not start taking any of the drugs mentioned above without consulting your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe drowsiness or unconsciousness.

NOTES: This medication provides temporary relief and must be used in addition to rest, physical therapy and other measures as directed by your doctor. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered within 1 hour. Otherwise skip that dose and resume usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.