Generic Name: Tizanidine
Brands: Zanaflex
Class: Skeletal muscle relaxants
Availability: Prescription required
Molecular Formula: C9H9Cl2N5S
Substance UNII: 6AI06C00GW
What is Tizanidine?
Tizanidine is a skeletal muscle relaxant. It is the generic name of the trade name drug Zanaflex.
What is Tizanidine Used For?
Tizanidine is to relieve spasms and increase the muscle tone for those with multiple sclerosis or a spinal cord injury. It is as effective as antispasmodic drugs such as diazepam and better tolerated by most patients. It is also sometimes offered for pain anxiety and to treat hiccups.
How Does Tizanidine Work?
Tizanidine is an alpha-2 (α2) adrenergic receptor agonist. It inhibits the release of norepinephrine, an important neurotransmitter. This release, in turn, slows the action between the brain and the nerve cells. This process allows spasming muscles to relax.
How Long Does it Take for Tizanidine to Work?
For most, the medication starts to have an effect in one to two hours.
Do Not Use Tizanidine If:
There are several situations where this medication may not be the right choice for you. According to the FDA, the following should not use tizanidine:
- Those taking a drug that inhibits CYP1A2 like antidepressants such as Luvox (fluvoxamine) or the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (Cipro).
Please note that this list may not be complete, and there may be other situations where use of this drug is not advisable.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.
