Cyclobenzaprine
Description
Cyclobenzaprine is a tricyclic amine, central nervous system (CNS) depressant and centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant that targets the brain stem leading to relief of musculoskeletal pain and stiffness usually caused by muscle spasms[1][4]. Recent studies have shown positive effects on patients with Fibromyalgia, but treatment with cyclobenzaprine only masks some of the physical symptoms of the disease and is not recommended for long term use [2]. It is administered orally in pill form with a recommended dosage of 5 – 10 mg three times per 24 hour period. Dosage depends upon individual response, age, current medications, and medical history. Cyclobenzaprine is not intended for regular use extending further than 2 – 3 weeks …show more content…
Cyclobenzaprine is thought to have a high affinity for serotonin receptors including the 5-HT2A, 5-HT2C, and 5-HT7 receptor subtypes as well as the α2-adrenoceptor [5][6]. Studies have been conflicting as to which receptors cyclobenzaprine specifically binds, but the result is an increase in norepinephrine and decrease in serotonin reuptake. In linking multiple studies, it could be hypothesized that cyclobenzaprine acts on the serotonin receptors antagonistically thus decreasing serotonin reuptake. It could also bind to the α2-adrenoceptor agonistically increasing norepinephrine release. The resulting hormones would act on the gamma and alpha motor neurons inhibiting the firing rate to a minimal effect to cause the muscle relaxation without inducing complete muscle failure [1][5][6]. The hypothesized mechanism of action is illustrated in Figure 1 showing all mention receptors and motor …show more content…
Some of the associated side effects with taking these drugs with cyclobenzaprine are seizures, hyperpyetic crisis, and in some cases death [1][4].
Other side effects seen in patients not taking medications contraindicated by cyclobenzaprine include dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, acid regurgitation, nausea, and unpleasant taste. Any noticed side effects should be reported immediately [1][4].
Cyclobenzaprine is reported as being used in conjunction with illicit drugs and alcohol with multiple reports indicating side effects that include sedation, relaxation, increased heart rate, and euphoria [3]. Combining cyclobenzaprine with alcohol poses a great risk to the user as ethanol is hepatotoxic and could cause decreased metabolism and clearance rates resulting in severe side effects and possible overdose. Without being used in conjunction with other drugs and alcohol, cyclobenzaprine has a low probability of
Cyclobenzaprine is a tricyclic amine, central nervous system (CNS) depressant and centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant that targets the brain stem leading to relief of musculoskeletal pain and stiffness usually caused by muscle spasms[1][4]. Recent studies have shown positive effects on patients with Fibromyalgia, but treatment with cyclobenzaprine only masks some of the physical symptoms of the disease and is not recommended for long term use [2]. It is administered orally in pill form with a recommended dosage of 5 – 10 mg three times per 24 hour period. Dosage depends upon individual response, age, current medications, and medical history. Cyclobenzaprine is not intended for regular use extending further than 2 – 3 weeks …show more content…
Cyclobenzaprine is thought to have a high affinity for serotonin receptors including the 5-HT2A, 5-HT2C, and 5-HT7 receptor subtypes as well as the α2-adrenoceptor [5][6]. Studies have been conflicting as to which receptors cyclobenzaprine specifically binds, but the result is an increase in norepinephrine and decrease in serotonin reuptake. In linking multiple studies, it could be hypothesized that cyclobenzaprine acts on the serotonin receptors antagonistically thus decreasing serotonin reuptake. It could also bind to the α2-adrenoceptor agonistically increasing norepinephrine release. The resulting hormones would act on the gamma and alpha motor neurons inhibiting the firing rate to a minimal effect to cause the muscle relaxation without inducing complete muscle failure [1][5][6]. The hypothesized mechanism of action is illustrated in Figure 1 showing all mention receptors and motor …show more content…
Some of the associated side effects with taking these drugs with cyclobenzaprine are seizures, hyperpyetic crisis, and in some cases death [1][4].
Other side effects seen in patients not taking medications contraindicated by cyclobenzaprine include dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, acid regurgitation, nausea, and unpleasant taste. Any noticed side effects should be reported immediately [1][4].
Cyclobenzaprine is reported as being used in conjunction with illicit drugs and alcohol with multiple reports indicating side effects that include sedation, relaxation, increased heart rate, and euphoria [3]. Combining cyclobenzaprine with alcohol poses a great risk to the user as ethanol is hepatotoxic and could cause decreased metabolism and clearance rates resulting in severe side effects and possible overdose. Without being used in conjunction with other drugs and alcohol, cyclobenzaprine has a low probability of