Tizanidine is a short-acting drug for the management of spasticity. Tizanidine is an agonist at a2-adrenergic receptor sites and presumably reduces spasticity by increasing presynaptic inhibition of motor neurons. In animal models, tizanidine has no direct effect on skeletal muscle fibers or the neuromuscular junction, and no major effect on monosynaptic spinal reflexes.
The effects of tizanidine are greatest on polysynaptic pathways. The overall effect of these actions is thought to reduce facilitation of spinal motor neurons.
Indication: For the management of increased muscle tone associated with spasticity
Tizanidine is a short-acting drug for the management of spasticity. Tizanidine is an agonist at a2-adrenergic receptor sites and presumably reduces spasticity by increasing presynaptic inhibition of motor neurons.
In animal models, tizanidine has no direct effect on skeletal muscle fibers or the neuromuscular junction, and no major effect on monosynaptic spinal reflexes. The effects of tizanidine are greatest on polysynaptic pathways. The overall effect of these actions is thought to reduce facilitation of spinal motor neurons.
Tizanidine reduces spasticity by increasing presynaptic inhibition of motor neurons through agonist action at a2-adrenergic receptor sites.
It works by blocking nerve impulses (pain sensations) that are sent to your brain. Tizanidine is used to treat spasticity by temporarily relaxing muscle tone and may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Do not use Zanaflex at a time when you need muscle tone for safe balance and movement during certain activities. In some situations, it may endanger your physical safety to be in a state of reduced muscle tone.
Metabolism: Hepatic
Do not take more than three doses (36 mg) of tizanidine in a 24-hour period. Too much of tizanidine can damage your liver. Cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, other muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by tizanidine.
Route of elimination: Approximately 95% of an administered dose is metabolized.
Half life: 2.5 hours
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects.Some medical conditions may interact with Tizanidine.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions.
Common Zanaflex side effects may include: drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, feeling nervous, blurred vision, flu-like symptoms ,dry mouth, trouble speaking, abnormal liver function tests, runny nose, sore throat, urination problems, vomiting, constipation or uncontrolled muscle movements.
Overdose symptoms may include weakness, drowsiness, confusion, slow heart rate, shallow breathing, feeling light-headed, or fainting.
This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider.
