Is Flexeril (Cyclobenzaprine) Addictive?
Key Takeaways
- Flexeril can be addictive, especially with long-term use - Jump to Section
- Flexeril is a muscle relaxer used short-term for muscle pain - Jump to Section
- Overdosing on Flexeril is possible and can be severe - Jump to Section
- Treatments for Flexeril addiction include inpatient and outpatient programs - Jump to Section
Is Flexeril (Cyclobenzaprine) Addictive?
Flexeril depresses the user’s central nervous system, easing discomfort and increasing feelings of relaxation. Although most doctors don’t consider Flexeril addictive, people who find its effects enjoyable might misuse it.
Flexeril is intended for short-term use. Long-term use can lead to physical dependence. Taking the drug in higher-than-recommended doses also increases the risk of addiction.
Signs of a Flexeril addiction include:
- Using the drug for longer than prescribed
- Needing to increase dosage amount to achieve the same effects
- Not being able to stop using the drug
- Spending a lot of time thinking about the drug, trying to get more of it, and using it
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not taking the drug
- Neglecting responsibilities and relationships in favor of taking the drug
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What is Flexeril?
Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) is a prescription muscle relaxer. Doctors prescribe it for the short-term relief of muscle pain and muscle spasms. It’s often prescribed for people who suffer strains or sprains. Sometimes people take it in conjunction with physical therapy.
Used properly, Flexeril is considered safe and effective. Abusing Flexeril puts users at a higher risk of complications and drug addiction.
Can You Take Flexeril Long Term?
Flexeril is a prescription medication recommended for short-term use. Long-term use of muscle relaxers increases the risk of addiction.
There is also a risk of physical problems from long-term use, including stomach problems and physical tolerance. Long-term use increases the chances users will experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using Flexeril.
Risks of Flexeril Abuse
Most people misuse and abuse Flexeril because it produces a feeling of relaxation. Over time, people tend to increase their dosage to increase the same effects.
Abuse increases the risk of overdose. Flexeril overdose symptoms include:
- Hallucinations
- Chest pain
- Rapid heartbeat
- Vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Slurred speech
- Extreme drowsiness
Flexeril overdose puts people at risk of:
- Cardiac arrest
- Low blood pressure
- Seizures
- Central nervous system depression
Combining Flexeril with alcohol and/or other drugs increases the risk of overdose.
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Can You Overdose on Flexeril?
Yes, you can overdose on Flexeril. This occurs when someone takes too much of the drug. Flexeril is often combined with another drug.
Flexeril overdose symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Vomiting
- Hallucinations
- Rapid heartbeat
- Slurred speech
- Drowsiness
- Difficulty breathing
It’s important to call 911 immediately for medical help if you suspect you or someone you know has overdosed on Flexeril or any medication.
Flexeril Side Effects
Side effects range from mild to severe. Some side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Nervousness
- Problems with urination
- Seizures
- Heart issues
- Stroke
- Psychosis
Flexeril Addiction Treatment
Flexeril addiction treatment varies based on the person’s specific situation. Common treatment options include:
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient treatment allows people to live full-time at the treatment facility. They receive round-the-clock medical supervision. Most inpatient programs last 30 days, but some need a longer stay.
The programs combine a variety of treatment approaches, including:
- Medically supervised detox
- Group counseling
- Individual therapy
- Support groups and 12-step programs
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment allows people to participate in treatment without staying overnight. They live off-site but spend several hours per week in treatment. These programs include:
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy
- Access to medication
The primary benefit of these programs is that participants can still tend to their responsibilities and spend time with loved ones while undergoing treatment.
12-Step Programs
12-step programs, including Narcotics Anonymous, offer access to treatment with great flexibility. These programs use the traditional 12-step approach introduced by Alcoholics Anonymous. These programs are used independently or in conjunction with other treatment approaches.
Dual-Diagnosis
Dual-diagnosis treatment programs treat a person’s addiction and any co-occurring mental health issues.
When choosing a treatment program, consider the following:
- Location
- Cost and health insurance coverage
- Accreditation
- Philosophy
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Summary
Flexeril is a controlled substance used for the short-term relief of muscle pain. It induces feelings of relaxation.
Flexeril is considered a safe muscle relaxant for most users but can induce various side effects ranging from mild to severe. It can be addictive, especially if you use it long-term. It’s possible to overdose on Flexeril. This risk increases when mixing it with other drugs or alcohol.
Flexeril addiction treatments are available, including inpatient and outpatient therapies.
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- Khan, Imran, and Chadi I. Kahwaji. “Cyclobenzaprine.” PubMed, 2020.
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. “Harmful Interactions.” niaaa.nih.gov, 2019.
- Shprecher, D., et al. “Neuropsychiatric Side Effects of Cyclobenzaprine.” PubMed, 2013.
- National Library of Medicine. “Cyclobenzaprine HCl Tablets, USP 5 Mg and 10 Mg Rx Only.” dailymed.nlm.nih.gov, 2019.
- National Library of Medicine. “Cyclobenzaprine: MedlinePlus Drug Information.” medlineplus.gov, 2017.
- National Library of Medicine. “Long-term Use of Cyclobenzaprine for Pain: A Review of the Clinical Effectiveness.” pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, 2015.
