Tizanidine
Tizanidine reduces nerve signals that drive muscle spasticity. It can cause marked drowsiness and low blood pressure and has important interactions.
Key points
- Tizanidine can reduce spasm but may also weaken muscles needed for balance or movement.
- Ciprofloxacin, fluvoxamine, alcohol and other sedating or blood-pressure-lowering medicines can cause dangerous effects.
- Fainting, slowed breathing, severe confusion or withdrawal with a fast heartbeat needs urgent care.
Listings are for comparison only. Suitability and supply depend on clinician and pharmacy checks, stock, destination rules and prescription requirements.
How it works
Tizanidine stimulates central alpha-2 receptors, reducing release of excitatory neurotransmitters involved in muscle tone.
Important safety checks
Low blood pressure, liver or kidney disease and all medicines require review. Avoid driving until individual effects are known. Regular treatment should not be stopped abruptly because rebound high blood pressure, fast heart rate and worsening spasticity can occur.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for fainting, slowed or difficult breathing, inability to wake, severe confusion, yellow skin or eyes, or withdrawal symptoms with severe headache, very high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat or rapidly worsening spasms.