Tizanidine (Zanaflex) Drug for Multiple Sclerosis: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Tizanidine
(Zanaflex, United States)

Use:

Tizanidine or Zanaflex is used to reduce muscle spasticity in conditions such as multiple sclerosis. It is able to reduce stiffness and spasm, but not muscle weakness.

How It Works:

Tizanidine or Zanaflex is an alpha 2 agonist which reduces the muscle spasticity.

Side Effects:

Tizanidine or Zanaflex used is associated with dry mouth, sedation, and dizziness. In overdose, heart beat irregularities occur.

Cautions for People:

People must realize that while Tizanidine or Zanaflex may be able to relieve some of the stiffness and spasm of multiple sclerosis, it appears to have no effect on muscle weakness.

Drug Interactions:

Because it can produce drowsiness and sedation, in combination with other drugs that have similar side effects, drowsiness and sedation may be marked.

Further Reading:

Neurology 1994;44(Suppl9):S70
FDC Rpts 12/9/96
Drugs 1997;53(3):435

Added to Virtual Drugstore April 1997.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.