What is Zanaflex? Uses, warnings & side effects

How to take Zanaflex

• Follow all the prescriber’s instructions. The dose may change during treatment. 

• Do not switch between tablets and capsules without a prescription.

• Take a dose when needed unless directed otherwise by the prescriber. Because the effects last a short time, take the dose before activities that require relief from muscle spasms.

• Doses should be separated by at least six to eight hours.

• Do not take more than three doses in a day.

• Zanaflex can be taken with food or on an empty stomach but always take it the same way.

• Store Zanaflex in a closed, child-proofed container at room temperature (59°F to 86°F).

• Keep Zanaflex out of the reach of children.

What to do if you miss a dose of Zanaflex

• Take a missed dose when remembered. 

• If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. 

• Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Zanaflex contraindications - Who shouldn't take Zanaflex?

• The prescribing information does not list any medical conditions as contraindications.

• Do not use Zanaflex if you have had an allergic reaction to tizanidine.

• Zanaflex is contraindicated in anyone taking a drug that powerfully inhibits the body’s ability to break down tizanidine, such as ciprofloxacin and fluvoxamine.

Zanaflex warnings

• Tell any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you that you are taking Zanaflex.

• Zanaflex is a powerful medication, so the prescriber needs regular examinations and blood tests to monitor treatment and side effects. Keep all appointments.

• Tell the prescriber if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have kidney or liver problems.

• Tell the prescriber if you smoke.

• Tizanidine can cause serious problems, including:

  • Liver damage

  • Very low blood pressure

  • Withdrawal symptoms include muscle rigidity, muscle spasms, racing heartbeats, and high blood pressure

• Tizanidine can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid driving or other potentially hazardous activities until you know how this medicine affects you. 

• Do not stop taking tizanidine until talking to the prescriber, especially if the doses are large or have been taken for a long time. The doctor may need to slowly decrease the dose to safely discontinue the drug.

Zanaflex interactions & what to avoid when taking Zanaflex

• Before taking Zanaflex, make sure the prescribing healthcare provider knows about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements being taken.

• Tell other healthcare professionals about tizanidine before they prescribe new medications.

• Never take tizanidine along with ciprofloxacin (an antibiotic) or fluvoxamine (an antidepressant).

• Tizanidine can cause serious side effects when combined with certain drugs, particularly:

  • Other muscle relaxants

  • Drugs that treat or affect heart rhythms

  • Fluoroquinolone antibiotics

  • Stomach acid reducers such as cimetidine or famotidine

  • Certain types of blood pressure drugs, particularly alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists (find a complete list of these drugs here)  

  • Birth control pills

  • Acyclovir, a herpes drug

  • Drugs that make you sleepy such as benzodiazepines, narcotic pain medications, barbiturates, and sleeping aids

• Avoid alcohol when taking tizanidine.

• Avoid smoking. 

Find out more about tizanidine interactions to avoid here.