Description
Details
Tizan (Tizanidine) 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.
This drug causes drowsiness in almost half the people who use it. It also tends to reduce blood pressure in many people, frequently leading to dizziness and light-headedness. The likelihood of significant drowsiness increases when it is combined with other spasticity drugs. When taking this medication, always be cautious about driving or operating dangerous machinery.
Take Tizan (Tizanidine) exactly as directed. The danger of side effects increases with the size of the dose. To minimize side effects, the doctor is likely to begin with a dosage of 4mg, then increase the dose gradually. Doses of 8mg provide relief for most people. No more than 3 doses should be taken each 24 hours. The maximum dose per day is 36mg. Doses should be taken only as needed. Allow 6 to 8 hours between doses. Take no more than 3 a day. Never double the dose.
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Tizan (Tizanidine).
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
Less common side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, anxiety, back pain, depression, diarrhea, fever, indigestion, muscle weakness, rash, sores, sweating, tingling
A number of very rare side effects have also been reported. If you develop any new or unusual symptoms, be sure to check with your doctor.
Researchers have little information on the long-term consequences of using Tizan (Tizanidine) in single doses of more than 8mg, or in total amounts of more than 24mg a day. If you require a higher dosage, previously unrecognized side effects could possibly appear.
Remember that this medication 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.
This drug 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 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.
This drug has not been tested in children.
Oral contraceptives tend to boost the amount of this drug in the system. If you are using an oral contraceptive, you`ll probably need a smaller dose of this drug.
Alcohol, or any drug that slows the nervous system (including other drugs taken for spasticity), increases the likelihood of drowsiness when taken with this medication.
