Robaxin

The active ingredient in Robaxin is methocarbamol. The exact way it works as a skeletal muscle relaxant is not fully understood. Some studies indicate that it may work by calming the nerves responsible for muscle tightness or cramping, while other research suggests it may act directly on the muscles to promote relaxation.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Robaxin. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Robaxin:

• Take Robaxin exactly as directed by your doctor. Be sure to follow the instructions on your prescription label and review any medication guides or instruction sheets provided. This medication is part of a broader treatment plan that may include rest, physical therapy, or other methods to relieve pain.
• Robaxin tablets are taken orally. Your doctor may recommend reducing the dosage after the first 2 to 3 days of treatment. Always follow your doctor's dosing instructions carefully.
• Robaxin injections are administered into a muscle or infused into a vein by a healthcare professional. Typically, the injection is given as a single dose before transitioning to the oral form.
• Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience burning, pain, or swelling around the IV site during the injection.
• This medication may interfere with certain medical test results. Be sure to inform any doctor treating you that you are using Robaxin.
• The injectable form of methocarbamol is used alongside rest, physical therapy, and other treatments to alleviate discomfort caused by acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions. While the exact mechanism of action is unclear, its effects may be linked to its sedative properties.

The most common side effects of Robaxin include:

• Drowsiness.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Blurred vision.
• Headaches.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Upset stomach or stomach cramps.
• Metallic taste in the mouth.
• Skin rash.
• Confusion.
• Short-term memory loss.
• Poor coordination.

Some individuals may experience serious adverse effects while using Robaxin. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Lowered heart rate or slow heartbeats.
• A seizure.
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
• Pain, bruising, swelling, or skin irritation where the injection was given.

These are not all of the possible adverse reactions of Robaxin. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report side effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Robaxin, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Do not use Robaxin if you are allergic or have had any allergic reactions to methocarbamol.
• Before starting Robaxin, inform your doctor if you have myasthenia gravis.
• Your dosage may need to be adjusted after the initial 2 or 3 days of treatment.
• Robaxin can affect your thinking or reaction time, so use caution when driving or performing tasks that require alertness. Additionally, consuming alcohol may enhance certain side effects of this medication.
• To ensure this medication is safe for you, inform your doctor if you have:
• Kidney disease
• A history of seizures
• Myasthenia gravis
• Methocarbamol may pose a risk to an unborn baby. Use reliable birth control to avoid pregnancy and notify your doctor immediately if you become pregnant.
• It may not be safe to breastfeed while taking this medication. Consult your doctor to understand any potential risks.
• Robaxin is not approved for individuals under 16 years of age unless used to treat tetanus.
• Cautious use is warranted, particularly in patients with severe renal impairment or those patients on hemodialysis, as the clearance of methocarbamol is reduced.

Contraindications refer to specific health conditions or circumstances where taking a particular medication could be unsafe. If any of the following apply to you, inform your healthcare provider, as methocarbamol may not be safe for use:

• Kidney issues (applies to the injection form only).
• The FDA states that methocarbamol is contraindicated for patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to methocarbamol or its inactive ingredients.

It usually takes 30 minutes to feel the effects of muscle relaxant, Robaxin and should last for about 6 to 7 hours.

When Robaxin is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Combining Robaxin with other medications that cause drowsiness, sedation, or slow breathing can lead to severe side effects or even be life-threatening. Consult your doctor before taking opioid pain relievers (codeine, hydrocodone), barbiturates, sleep aids, other muscle relaxants (carisoprodol), antihistamines, and medications for anxiety, depression, or seizures.
• Methocarbamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as diclofenac, are not known to interact. It is generally safe to take them together.

For individuals aged 16 and older, the usual starting dose is 1,500 mg taken orally four times a day for the first 2 to 3 days. After this period, your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage to a lower maintenance dose. The typical maintenance dose is 4,000 mg per day, divided into smaller doses and taken three to four times daily.

Robaxin (methocarbamol) is also available in an injectable form, which is administered into a vein or muscle by a trained healthcare professional.

For a missed dose, take the next dose as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

Overdose is observed frequently in conjunction with CNS depressants (central nervous system depressants) such as alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines.

Store Robaxin at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Ensure the bottle is tightly closed when not in use as well as keep out of reach of children.

Endo Pharmaceuticals Inc. used to be the manufacturer of Robaxin until 2020.

There are several lower-cost generic versions of Robaxin available with the active ingredient of methocarbamol.

Robaxin is not known to cause withdrawal symptoms. However, healthcare professionals advise both recreational users and those taking it for legitimate medical purposes to transition on or off the medication gradually, rather than starting or stopping it suddenly.

Robaxin is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy unless specifically advised by a physician. While limited information is available about potential risks to a fetus, there have been a few reported cases of withdrawal. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Breastfeeding while taking this medication may not be safe. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.