Generic name: metaxalone [ me-TAX-a-lone ]
Drug class: Skeletal muscle relaxants

Medically reviewed by Melisa Puckey, BPharm. Last updated on May 8, 2024.

What is Skelaxin?

Skelaxin (metaxalone) is from the class of medicines called skeletal muscle relaxant and is used to treat symptoms of skeletal muscle conditions such as pain or injury. It is thought to work by blocking nerve impulses (or pain sensations) in the brain. Skelaxin is used together with rest and physical therapy.

Warnings

You should not use Skelaxin if you have anemia (low red blood cells), or severe kidney or liver disease. You may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take Skelaxin.

Skelaxin can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of metaxalone.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Skelaxin if you are allergic to metaxalone, or if you have:

• anemia (low red blood cells);

• severe kidney disease; or

• severe liver disease.

To make sure Skelaxin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease.

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether metaxalone passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.

Skelaxin is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old.

How should I take Skelaxin?

Take Skelaxin exactly as it was prescribed for you. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

This medicine can cause unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using this medicine.

Skelaxin is only part of a complete treatment program that may also include rest, physical therapy, or other pain relief measures. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Muscle Spasm:

800 mg orally 3 to 4 times a day.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Muscle Spasm:

>= 12 years: 800 mg orally 3 to 4 times a day.

Related/similar drugs

cyclobenzaprine, tizanidine, baclofen, diazepam, methocarbamol, Soma

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of metaxalone can be fatal.

What to avoid

Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death can occur when alcohol is combined with Skelaxin. Check your food and medicine labels to be sure these products do not contain alcohol.

This medicine may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

Dizziness or drowsiness may be more likely in older adults.

Skelaxin side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Skelaxin: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using Skelaxin and call your doctor at once if you have:

• weak or shallow breathing;

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

• pale or yellowed skin, dark colored urine, fever, confusion or weakness; or

• upper stomach pain, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common Skelaxin side effects may include:

• dizziness, drowsiness;

• nausea, vomiting, upset stomach;

• headache; or

• feeling nervous or irritable;

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Skelaxin?

Taking Skelaxin with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous or life-threatening side effects. Ask your doctor before taking a sleeping pill, narcotic pain medicine, prescription cough medicine, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or seizures.

Other drugs may interact with metaxalone, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Skelaxin only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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