The interaction
Due to the large number of different muscle relaxants, different interactions are possible. Most centrally acting muscle relaxants enhance the effect of other drugs that have a damping effect on the nervous system. These include certain painkillers such as opiates, but also sleeping pills or antidepressants.
The effect of pyridostigmine, on the other hand, is attenuated by methocarbamol. Tizanidine interacts with a large number of substances. These include above all active substances that have an influence on blood pressure, such as beta blockers or ACE inhibitors. If in doubt, a doctor or pharmacist should always be consulted. In addition, there are a large number of databases on the Internet for checking interactions.
Contraindications – When should muscle relaxants not be given?
In general, muscle relaxants should not be given if there is known intolerance to the active substance they contain. This includes allergies, but also other, non-specific reactions. In the case of liver and kidney function disorders or certain diseases such as myasthenia gravis, the dosage of certain muscle relaxants should also be adjusted or discontinued. Pregnancy or lactation can be a reason not to take muscle relaxants. If in doubt, a doctor or pharmacist should always be consulted.
The dosage
Muscle relaxants also differ in their dosage depending on the active ingredient. Mostly standard dosages are used, which have proven in tests and studies to be a good balance of potency and side effects. Methocarbamol, for example, is taken three times a day.
In special cases the doctor may also prescribe higher or lower dosages. For example, the dosage can be increased up to ten tablets per day. One tablet contains 750 mg of active ingredient.
Some muscle relaxants can also be administered by injection. Muscle relaxants are usually taken over several days. Taking them over a longer period of time is generally not recommended.
The Price
Muscle relaxants are offered at different prices. However, most of them are available only on prescription.In particular, stronger drugs such as benzodiazepines are not recommended for self-medication and are therefore not freely available. Over-the-counter muscle relaxants include magnesium or various herbal preparations. Magnesium is relatively inexpensive and is available from as little as five euros. Herbal preparations can also be more expensive.
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