What Is Robaxin (Methocarbamol)?
Robaxin is a medication prescribed as a muscle relaxant. Also known by the generic name methocarbamol, this type of drug provides patients with pain relief — usually after some sort of injury. Robaxin also works to ease muscle spasms, which can speed up the recovery process after a muscle injury.
Methocarbamol works by directly influencing nerve impulses within the brain. Robaxin prevents the activation of pain sensors in your brain, which helps to control muscle spasms and decrease pain. Your doctor will prescribe this medication if they believe it will help with pain management, and they will adjust your dosage of Robaxin according to your individual medical condition and level of pain.
How Is Robaxin (Methocarbamol) Used?
Methocarbamol is classified as a muscle relaxant, prescribed to reduce muscle pain and spasms after an injury. This oral medication is usually taken three or four times per day with meals — or as directed by your doctor. Methocarbamol helps to ease muscle spasms brought on by strains and sprains by depressing the central nervous system. Robaxin is typically prescribed as part of pain treatment program, alongside proper rest and physical therapy.
This oral medication is prescribed in two different doses — 500 mg or 750 mg — depending on your pain level. You should always take Robaxin exactly as directed, as taking more medication than necessary can lead to adverse and sometimes dangerous side effects. Your level of pain will not drastically decrease by taking more methocarbamol than prescribed.
Robaxin (Methocarbamol) Addiction
Robaxin serves as a central nervous system depressant, which can result in extreme drowsiness and slowed reaction time. Other common side effects of methocarbamol include lightheadedness, stomach pain, nausea, headaches, low blood pressure or blurred vision. These effects can be exaggerated if the medication is taken in excess, which can lead to substance misuse.
Moderate side effects of taking Robaxin can be worsened if you consume alcohol. Always inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking while on methocarbamol, as this can lead to serious side effects or even overdose. Symptoms of a methocarbamol overdose may include seizures or loss of consciousness, and you should seek medical attention immediately. If you believe you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, seek help today. Take your first step towards recovery today.
The Importance Of Aftercare
Always inform your doctor of any new or worsening side effects while on Robaxin. Although drowsiness and dizziness may occur while taking this medication, these side effects may be more drastic in older adults. Avoid using any other substances while on methocarbamol, and do not operate heavy machinery to avoid injury.
If you experience certain serious side effects, you should stop taking Robaxin and contact your doctor. Severe side effects include difficulty breathing, facial swelling, chest pain, irregular heartbeat or rash. Avoid alcohol or other depressant medications to prevent an accidental overdose. Anti-anxiety medications and other muscle relaxants can be especially dangerous while on methocarbamol. Keep your doctor informed about your pain level to make sure the benefits of Robaxin fit your individual medical needs.
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The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.