Tizanidine is commonly used for muscle spasticity, including muscle spasms. Tizanidine may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.
How does Tizanidine work (mechanism of action)?
Tizanidine works by reducing nerve activity in the spinal cord. This helps to relax the muscles and lead to reduced muscle spasms. Tizanidine works by stimulating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the central nervous system (CNS). This reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters that cause muscle spasticity, leading to muscle relaxation.
How is Tizanidine supplied (dosage forms)?
Tizanidine is available as Zanaflex and generic tizanidine in the following dosage forms that are taken by mouth.
- 2 mg oral capsules
- 4 mg oral capsules
- 6 mg oral capsules
- 2 mg oral tablets
- 4 mg oral tablets
Common Uses of Tizanidine
- Neurological Disorders:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Reduces muscle stiffness and improves movement.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Alleviates spasticity caused by damage to the spinal cord.
- Stroke: Helps relieve post-stroke muscle tightness.
- Cerebral Palsy: Manages spasticity to improve mobility in some cases.
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): Provides relief from spasticity symptoms.
- Short-Term Muscle Issues:
- Occasionally used off-label to manage muscle spasms or pain caused by acute injuries.
- Other Off-Label Uses:
- Chronic Pain Syndromes: May be used alongside other medications for pain management.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Helps reduce jaw muscle stiffness in some cases.
What are the most common side effects of Tizanidine?
The most common side effects of tizanidine are listed below. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness or sleepiness (see below)
- Feeling unusually weak or tired
- Dizziness (see below)
- Kidney or bladder infection
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Common cold symptoms
There may be other side effects of tizanidine that are not listed here.