If you’ve been prescribed Flexeril, the cyclobenzaprine brand name, you might wonder why this is no longer available. This brand-name substance disappeared from pharmacy shelves in 2023, leaving many individuals confused about their treatment options.
What Is Cyclobenzaprine? Generic Flexeril vs. Brand Name
Cyclobenzaprine is part of the skeletal muscle relaxant drug class. It essentially blocks pain signals from traveling between your muscles and brain. This is how it helps ease muscle tension or spasms.
Flexeril was just one brand name for this drug, with its main differences from the generic version being:
- More expensive
- Different colors and shapes of pills
- Varied inactive ingredients
What Was Flexeril Used For?
Doctors prescribed Flexeril for muscle spasms, which heavy lifting can cause. It was common to pair this with rest time and physical therapy. Some off-label uses helped with sleep and easing symptoms:
- Fibromyalgia
- Jaw pain
- Insomnia
A typical Flexeril dosage was 5 or 10mg, taken a few times a day. Treatment was short-term; however, it usually lasted for up to three weeks.
Is Flexeril a Controlled Substance?
Flexeril was prescription-only. However, it wasn’t regulated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a controlled substance.
Cyclobenzaprine Side Effects
- Sleepiness
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Constant tiredness
- Blurry vision
- Constipation
- Upset stomach
- Confusion (worse for older people)
Why Flexeril Was Discontinued
Merck stopped making Flexeril in 2023 without any official reasoning provided. But most experts agree on the following factors:
- Economic Competition from Generics
Non-branded cyclobenzaprine became so cheap that Flexeril couldn’t compete.
- Early Legal Challenges
Merck got FDA approval in 1977. Generic versions showed up early in 1986, leading to legal fights. This was partly due to similarities between cyclobenzaprine and older tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline.
- Patent Expiration Effects
When patents expire, companies can’t make enough profit on expensive brand names. Cheap generics do the same job, making brand names unprofitable.
- No Safety Issues
The discontinuation wasn’t due to safety concerns. Standard cyclobenzaprine works exactly the same as Flexeril does. The drug itself is still safe and effective.
Is Flexeril Addictive?
If you take it right for a short time, it’s likely not to be addictive. But some people do get hooked on long-term use or high doses. The drug affects your brain, creating feelings of calm. Some individuals chase this feeling, leading to increased use.
Warning Signs of Flexeril Misuse
If you see any of the following signs, it’s best to seek professional help:
- Taking the drug longer than prescribed
- Needing more pills for the same effect
- Crushing or snorting pills
- Thinking about the drug all the time
- Acting different or looking different
Dangers of Cyclobenzaprine Interactions With Other Drugs
Mixing cyclobenzaprine with other substances can be dangerous and might call for a supervised detox. Let’s explore some risky contraindications, such as cyclobenzaprine and:
- Alcohol can slow breathing and heart rate, and make you too sleepy to wake up
- Sleep pills and anxiety meds (barbiturates, benzodiazepines) can stop your breathing
- Serotonin antidepressants can cause serotonin syndrome (shaking, sweating, high blood pressure)
- MAO inhibitors can cause seizures
- Anticholinergic drugs can worsen dry mouth, dry eyes, and constipation
Tell your doctor about all medications or supplements you’re taking before they prescribe anything new.
Safer Flexeril Alternatives
Only your doctor can select a medication for you based on your needs, medical history, and circumstances. But there are various options like Flexeril for muscle pain.
Medications
- Generic cyclobenzaprine
- Brand names like Fexmid
- Methocarbamol (Robaxin), which doesn’t make you as sleepy
- Baclofen (for nerve-related muscle issues)
- Tizanidine (shorter effectiveness; less daytime sleepiness)
Holistic Approaches
- Physical Therapy: For muscle strengthening and flexibility
- Heat and Ice: For reduced pain and swelling
- Massages: To increase healthy blood flow
- Acupuncture: Helpful for ongoing pain
- Easy Exercises: Swimming, walking, simple yoga
- Stress Relief: Deep breathing, meditation
Muscle Relaxers: Cyclobenzaprine’s Place in Modern Treatment
Brand name Flexeril is discontinued, but generic cyclobenzaprine still works great for muscle spasms. You just need to use it responsibly and follow your doctor’s directions.
Ask about what options might work for you, as some people benefit from a blend of medicine and therapy.
If you or someone you know develops problems with cyclobenzaprine dependence or other substance addictions, treatment programs can help. Don’t let muscle pain control your daily life; there are healthy solutions out there.
