Generic
Methocarbamol
6 brands available in the market
At a glance
Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant used for relief of muscle stiffness, tension, and spasms associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions.
Description
The mechanism of action of methocarbamol is thought to be dependent on its central nervous system depressant activity. This action may be mediated through blocking spinal polysynaptic reflexes, decreasing nerve transmission in spinal and supraspinal polysynaptic pathways, and prolonging the refractory period of muscle cells. Methocarbamol has no effect on contraction of muscle fibers, motor end plates, or nerve fibers.
Indications
- Relief of muscle stiffness, tension, and spasms associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions - as an adjunct to rest, physical therapy, and other measures
- Tetanus (adjunctive therapy)
Therapeutic class
Centrally Acting Skeletal Muscle Relaxants
Pharmacological class
CNS Depressant
Pharmacology
Methocarbamol blocks spinal polysynaptic reflexes, decreases nerve transmission in spinal and supraspinal polysynaptic pathways, and prolongs the refractory period of muscle cells to relax muscles.
Mechanism of action
Relieves muscle stiffness and spasms.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Muscle spasm: 1.5 g q6hr for 48-72 hours; not to exceed 8 g/day; THEN decrease to 4-4.5 g/day divided q4-8hr
- Tetanus (IV): 1-2 g IV (at 300 mg/min), THEN additional 1-2 g IV infusion; total up to 24 g/day
Children (Tetanus): 15 mg/kg/dose IV q6hr OR 500 mg/m²/dose; not to exceed 1.8 g/m²/day for 3 days only
Administration
- Oral: Swallow tablet whole
- Parenteral: Administered IV/IM by doctor or nurse; do not self-administer
- Take with or after food or a glass of milk
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Sleepiness
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness/lightheadedness
- Fatigue
- Vomiting, constipation
- Sweating
- Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)
Precautions & warnings
- Caution when driving or doing activities requiring concentration (may cause drowsiness and dizziness)
- Avoid alcohol (may cause excessive drowsiness)
- Caution in epilepsy or myasthenia gravis
- Do not use parenteral form in renal impairment
- Monitor liver and kidney function with long-term use
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Renal impairment (parenteral)
- Epilepsy or history of epilepsy
- Coma or pre-coma states
- Brain damage
- Myasthenia gravis
Drug interactions
- Potentiated by alcohol and other CNS depressants
- May inhibit effect of pyridostigmine (caution with anticholinesterase agents)
Food interactions
Alcohol may cause excessive drowsiness with Methocarbamol.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Methocarbamol may be unsafe during pregnancy (Category C); no animal studies; use only if clearly needed.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Methocarbamol is probably safe during breastfeeding; limited human data suggests no significant risk to the baby.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children under 16 years.
Geriatric use
Elderly should start with half the dose.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; parenteral form contraindicated (due to polyethylene glycol).
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause nausea, drowsiness, blurred vision, hypotension, seizures, coma; symptomatic and supportive treatment.
Storage conditions
Protect from light, store below 30°C; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Methocarbamol