Chlorzoxazone (patient information)
Template:Drug header Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Why this medication is prescribed?
Chlorzoxazone is used to relieve pain and stiffness caused by muscle strains and sprains. It is used in combination with physical therapy, analgesics (such as aspirin or acetaminophen), and rest.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How this medication should be used?
Chlorzoxazone comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken three or four times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take chlorzoxazone exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Special precautions
Before taking chlorzoxazone:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to chlorzoxazone or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially sedatives, sleeping pills, tranquilizers, and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking chlorzoxazone, call your doctor.
- you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
- remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.
What to do if you forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Side effects
Minor side effects
Chlorzoxazone may cause side effects. Your urine may turn purple or red; this effect is not harmful. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- weakness
Severe side effects
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- skin rash or itching
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- stomach pain
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
Storage conditions needed for this medication
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of emergency
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Other information
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
Brand names
- Parafon Forte® DSC Caplets®