Prescription drugs can be lifesavers when taken correctly, but misuse can lead to dependency and harm your health. While narcotics and similar medications are widely recognized for their addictive potential, many people are unaware that muscle relaxers can also become habit-forming. Typically prescribed for short-term use—often no longer than two weeks—muscle relaxers are becoming increasingly abused, adding to the growing concern around prescription medication misuse.
Muscle Relaxers Commonly Subject to Abuse
Muscle relaxers come in various forms, each designed to address specific muscular or skeletal pain. They fall into two main categories: antispastics and antispasmodics.
- Antispastic medications target “spasticity,” a condition where muscles contract uncontrollably, often due to nerve pathway injuries.
- Antispasmodic medications are used to alleviate muscle spasms and pain, particularly in the lower back.
Here are some commonly prescribed muscle relaxers:
- Carisoprodol (Soma®, Vanadom®)
- Chlorzoxazone (Lorzone®, Parafon Forte®, Relax-DS®, Remular S®)
- Cyclobenzaprine (Fexmid®, Flexeril®)
- Metaxalone (Metaxall®, Skelaxin®)
- Methocarbamol (Robaxin®)
- Orphenadrine (Norflex®)
- Baclofen (Lioresal®)
- Dantrolene (Dantrium®)
- Tizanidine (Zanaflex®)
- Diazepam (Valium®)
Among these, Carisoprodol stands out as one of the most abused. Studies reveal that it is frequently sought through multiple prescriptions or even fraudulent prescriptions, contributing to the alarming rise in muscle relaxer addiction.
Recognizing Side Effects of Muscle Relaxers
Each muscle relaxer has unique side effects, but many share similar risks. It’s crucial to know these potential impacts, especially as some may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Common side effects include:
- Sleepiness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
When misused, muscle relaxers can cause drowsiness, confusion, and altered mental states. Abuse often leads to tolerance, meaning users need higher doses for the same effect. This increased dosage amplifies side effects, making withdrawal and detox more challenging.
The Hazards of Misusing Muscle Relaxers
Overdosing on muscle relaxers is a serious risk, especially when combined with alcohol. Both are central nervous system depressants, and together, they can cause severe side effects or even death.
Symptoms of combining muscle relaxers and alcohol include:
- Severe drowsiness and dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Low blood pressure
- Fainting
- Memory loss
- Liver damage
Alcohol significantly raises the risk of overdose. Signs of a muscle relaxer overdose include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Heart failure
- Coma
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical assistance by calling 911. For non-emergencies, reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 1-800-662-4357.
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
Addiction to muscle relaxers doesn’t have to be a life sentence. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or someone close to you, professional support is available. At Solution Based Treatment, our team is ready 24/7 to guide you toward recovery. We offer detox services followed by stays in top-tier sober living environments. There, you can develop relapse prevention skills, build a supportive community, and rediscover your passion for life.
If you’re ready to break free from dependency and reclaim control, contact us today to find the right treatment plan for your journey.
About Solution Based Treatment
Solution Based Treatment is a national leader in detox and rehab programs. We offer inpatient medical detox, substance rehab, intensive outpatient programs, partial hospitalization programs, faith-based recovery, and sober living options. We maintain a 2:1 client to staff ratio to offer the best support possible to our patients within upscale living environments. At Solution Based Treatment, we support better living for brighter futures, all starting with our detox and rehab services. For more information visit our website at solutionbasedtreatment.com or give us a call at (833) 999-1941.