Metaxalone

Metaxalone is a centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant used to treat acute musculoskeletal conditions characterized by muscle spasm and pain. It is taken by mouth and intended for short-term use as part of a broader treatment plan that may include rest, physical therapy, or analgesics.

The exact mechanism of metaxalone is not fully understood. It is believed to depress certain centers within the brain and spinal cord, leading to a reduction in tonic muscle activity and muscle spasm without a direct relaxing effect on the skeletal muscle itself.

Metaxalone is typically prescribed for short-term relief of muscle spasm due to strains, sprains, or injuries. It is commonly used in conjunction with rest and rehabilitation measures and is not intended for long-term therapy.

Dosing commonly used in adults is 800 mg taken three or four times daily as needed, with a maximum daily dose around 3.2 g. Treatment is usually limited to two to three weeks, depending on clinical response and tolerability.

Contraindications include hypersensitivity to metaxalone. Caution is advised in individuals with liver impairment and in the elderly, and use during pregnancy or while lactating should be carefully considered due to limited data on safety.

Common adverse effects are drowsiness, dizziness, and headache. Nausea and stomach upset may occur, and rare cases of liver injury have been reported; seek medical attention if signs of hepatic dysfunction appear. Metaxalone can enhance the sedative effects of other central nervous system depressants, including alcohol.

Metaxalone is a prescription medication and is not typically classified as a controlled substance in most jurisdictions. It is absorbed orally, metabolized by the liver, and eliminated through the kidneys.