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Muscle spasm, attributed to one of many possible reasons, is typically treated with drugs that offer fast results. For instance, individuals are likely to experience muscle spams as a result of multiple sclerosis, musculoskeletal injury, stroke, or injury to the spinal cord. Additionally, any injury to the brain after birth, commonly known as acquired brain injury -either by infection or a lack of flow of oxygen, may also result in muscle spasm, warranting treatment. Tizanidine is one among the various treatment options presently in use for treating the above condition, by reliving spasms, and cramping. Here is a compilation of possible side effects of tizanidine that could be experienced when on the medication.

Overview and side effects of tizanidine

The medication works by relieving the tightness in the muscles that are caused as a result of the above-mentioned medical issues. The medication does not cure the issues, but helps in management of the condition, offering relief from stiff and tight muscles. The muscle relaxing properties of the medication is attributed to the mechanism of action of the medication on the central nervous system. The mechanism of action of the medication is responsible for some of the undesirable side effects of tizanidine. Available in tablet and capsule form, tizanidine is a prescription medication, and is recommended only after suitable diagnosis or evaluation of the condition.

Side effects of tizanidine : interactions with other drugs

The medication is known to interact with other drug formulations, triggering undesirable side effects. It is important to intimate the treating specialist about the existence of other conditions or medications that are being used. This includes herbal formulations and supplements, and other over the counter medications that are commonly used for various conditions. There are different types of drug interactions possible when the medication is taken along with other medications. For instance, certain interactions are serious in nature and this makes it necessary for the patients to discontinue either of the two medications. In certain instances, the dosage of ether of the medications may be altered, along with the time of administering the medication. Medications that are commonly known to interact and result in possible side effects of tizanidine are as listed herewith. Antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin can interact with the medication. Similarly, certain antidepressants are also known to result in adverse effects. Other medications include alfentanil, bromazepam, calcium oxybate, cannabidiol and anti-histamines including cetirizine.

This is not a comprehensive list of medications that result in drug interactions but a compilation of some of the drugs that result in side effects. The actual of list of medications that trigger interactions is quite extensive, and it is necessary to seek medical advice prior to starting any treatment regimen. Certain drugs are known to increase the intensity or duration of known side effects of the medication. For instance. medications sued for treating high blood pressure can aggravate the side effects of the medication. Similarly, medications used for treating epilepsy and neuralgia are also known to aggravate the side effects of the medication. It may be necessary to modify the dosage accordingly, and all caution needs to be exercised prior to start of treatment regimen.

Prevent side effects of tizanidine caused by incorrect dosage

One of the reasons for possible side effects of tizanidine is the incorrect dosage and improper use of the medication. It is therefore necessary to understand the right dosage and follow with complete diligence the dosage instructions. Here is recommended dosage information for the purpose of reference. It is necessary to note that the recommended dosage is effectively an average dosage and the actual dosage may differ from person to person. This is determined by various factors such as the age of the individual, the actual condition, the extent of the medical problem and other existing conditions of the patient.

The medication is prescribed to be taken with specific gaps in between doses.

It is hence necessary to follow the recommendations, regarding the gaps between doses and the duration of the treatment regimen. This is determined by the medical condition and its intensity. The ideal dosage for adults, requiring muscle relaxation is 2 milligrams once every eight hours. This may increase depending on the condition. However, the maximum permitted dosage per day is not to exceed 36 mg. Remember to stay within this upper limit, regardless of the condition, to avoid adverse side effects of tizanidine.

Allergic reactions due to side effects of tizanidine

In addition to the drug interactions mentioned earlier, there is also the possibility of individuals experiencing allergic reactions. A few allergic reactions attributed to the side effects of tizanidine are effectively the result of the mechanism of action of the medication. The possible allergic reactions are simple in nature, and may resolve naturally without he need for special interventions. However, individuals who are allergic to certain substances may experience allergic reactions. For instance, individuals are known to be allergic to animal dander, pollen, and preservatives in food products. Others are allergic to specific food products. Such categories of allergic prone individuals are to check for the presence of any substance or ingredients in the medication that could trigger allergies. Patients sensitized to allergies may require special treatment or intervention to handle allergies as a result of exposure to allergens.

Tips to mitigate side effects of tizanidine among the elderly and infants

To ensure that the elderly and infants are not affected by the side effects of tizanidine, it is important to follow certain precautions. While there are no specific studies or documented reports of adverse effects of the medication on the elderly or on infants, there is a clear need for caution. For instance, the elderly are likely to have impaired kidney functions and this may require additional caution when determining dosages. One of the reasons for the elderly to experience complications is the reduced function of the kidneys/liver which result in improper  elimination of drug formulations. As the ingredients remain in the system for a longer time, the side effects are likely to last longer or to be marginally stronger than those of adults.

Patients with liver ailments and impaired kidneys

To prevent side effects of tizanidine it is necessary for individuals with pre-existing diseases to specifically seek modified doses. For instance, individuals with liver/kidney ailments are likely to have relatively lesser ability to eliminate the medication from the system. Consequently, the side effects are more likely to be stronger in nature. The side effects of the medication may also be persistent, requiring some form of medical intervention. Individuals with diagnosed conditions are advised to specifically seek modified doses as determined by the specialist.

Tips for nursing mothers and individuals on intoxicants

Adequate studies have not been carried out on the effect of the medication on nursing mothers. Consequently, there are no documented reports that indicate possible adverse effects either on the infant or on the mother. However, it is necessary for pregnant mothers or nursing mothers to seek specialist advice prior to getting on a treatment regimen with this medication. The benefits of the drug should quite clearly make out a case for taking the medication that has not been specifically tested on pregnant mothers. Similarly, to prevent side effects of tizanidine it is necessary for individuals on intoxicants to discontinue smoking/drinking during the course of treatment. Tobacco products and alcohol may work in such a manner so as to cause undesirable effects in individuals on the medication.

Commonly reported side effects of tizanidine

Commonly reported side effects of tizanidine include a light headed or dizzy feeling when rising from a seated or reclining position. This is one of the most commonly reported conditions and has a very simply method to remedy/address the problem. Individuals are expected to rise up slowly from the reclining or resting position, with complete awareness of this effect when travelling. There is also the possibility of discoloration of urine and stools that may be appear either dark or pale in color. This indicates a possibility of problems associated with the liver. Other symptoms that indicate this condition include yellowish appearance in the eyes, or the skin, apart from an abnormal loss of appetite.

As mentioned above, patients on the medication may experience drowsiness, and this could have a serious effect on professional responsibilities. Individuals involved in operation of heavy machinery, or tasks that require greater concentration are expected to avoid tasks till completion of treatment. The ability to co-ordinate movements, actions or responses effectively may be impaired. Similarly, the medication may result in hallucinations that could impact social behavior. To prevent the manifestation of these side effects of tizanidine, it is necessary to be counselled and monitored regularly.

As mentioned earlier, the side effects of tizanidine include allergies. However, the allergic reactions are not regular or strong, and may not require treatment. In very rare instances, there is a possibility of severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis that is considered as life-endangering in nature. Symptoms that precede or indicate anaphylaxis include rashes, itching, difficulty in breathing or swallowing, and possible inflammation in the face/mouth. Patients are to seek immediate medical intervention if any of the above symptoms are experienced. The possibility of pain in the chest exists, that could be accompanied by some kind of discomfort. The patient may experience abnormal fatigue that is not attributed to any other reason. Fever is one of the possible side effects of tizanidine and this may be accompanied by chills/vigors. Additionally, individuals may also experience blurred vision, while others may experience symptoms that are similar to that of flu. The above is compilation of some of the possible side effects and is neither complete nor exhaustive.