Brand Names: Zanaflex, Sirdalud
Generic Name: Tizanidine
This medication description is not meant for treatment prescription without the intervention of a specialist.
Common Uses
Sirdalud relaxes the tense, rigid muscles caused by spasticity. It is prescribed for people with multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and other disorders that produce protracted muscles spasms. The effect of the drug peaks 1 to 2 hours after each dose and is gone within 3 to 6 hours, so it's best to schedule doses for shortly before the daily activities when relief of spasticity is most important.
How to Take
To minimize side effects, the doctor is likely to begin with a dosage of 4 milligrams, then increase the dose gradually. Doses of 8 milligrams provide relief for most people. No more than 3 doses should be taken each 24 hours. The maximum dose per day is 36 milligrams.
Warning and Precautions
Researchers have little information on the long-term consequences of using Sirdalud in single doses of more than 8 milligrams, or in total amounts of more than 24 milligrams a day. If you require a higher dosage, previously unrecognized side effects could possibly appear.
Remember that Sirdalud can cause low blood pressure and should be used with caution if you are taking blood pressure medication. Be cautious, too, when first standing up. Dizziness and light-headedness are especially likely at that time.
Sirdalud has been known to cause liver injury in a few patients. If you have a liver condition, make sure the doctor knows about it. Alert your doctor immediately if you develop warning signs of a liver problem such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or yellow skin or eyes.
You'll need a reduced dose of Sirdalud if you have a kidney problem. Be sure to inform the doctor about your condition, and be quick to report side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, and weakness. They could be signs that your dose is too high.
Use Sirdalud with caution if spasticity helps you maintain your posture and balance while walking, or helps to increase other functions.
Although there are no reports of eye damage from Sirdalud, it has occurred in animal tests. Be sure to report any vision problems to your doctor.
Sirdalud has not been tested on children.
Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Overdose
An overdose of Sirdalud can impair breathing and lead to coma. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Storage
Store Sirdalud at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Sirdalud out of the reach of children and away from pets.
Possible Side Effects
More common side effects may include: abnormal movements, blurred vision, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, flu-like symptoms, frequent urination, low blood pressure, nervousness, runny nose, slow heartbeat, sore throat, speech disorders, urinary and other infections, vomiting, weakness or fatigue.
More Information
The information given above is a summary. Your pharmacist can provide more information about Sirdalud. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.