Muscle relaxants

Muscle relaxants are medications that lower muscle tension. The complaints for which muscle relaxants are used can occur as a result of a sprain, overuse, or other muscle injury.

A muscle relaxant lowers muscle tension (muscle tone) and reduces stiffness in the muscles. The cause of the complaint is not addressed by this, of course. It is therefore advisable to have a doctor or physical therapist look further into the cause of the complaints.

What are muscle relaxants used for?

It is increasingly common for doctors to prescribe muscle relaxants, for example for back problems such as lumbago or a herniated disc. The most prescribed muscle-relaxing medications are Diazepam and Tramadol. Both have a different mode of action, and the combination of the two medications is often chosen to optimize the treatment of the muscles.

Diazepam belongs to the group of medications known as benzodiazepines. These medicines inhibit the activity of neurons in the brain. In this way, they have a calming effect on the body and relax the muscles. Diazepam is mainly prescribed for tension, restlessness, insomnia, and muscle cramps.

Tramadol is a medication that acts directly on the central nervous system and inhibits pain receptors. Tramadol is frequently prescribed for joint pain, nerve pain, and severe muscle pain, especially when milder pain medication such as acetaminophen does not help sufficiently.

What are possible side effects of muscle relaxants?

Muscle-relaxing medications have a strong effect on the body and, unfortunately, side effects come with that. Frequently occurring side effects of diazepam are drowsiness, fatigue, and reduced reaction time. These side effects occur in more than 30 out of 100 people. With daily use of diazepam, or if you experience the aforementioned side effects, it is strictly forbidden to drive.

Tramadol may also cause side effects besides the desired effect. Common side effects are drowsiness, sleepiness, nausea, and reduced concentration. These side effects are seen in 10 to 30 out of 100 people, and it is prohibited to drive for at least the first two weeks. After this period, it depends on any ongoing side effects.

Where are muscle relaxants available?

Diazepam has been on the market since 1961 and is only available on prescription. Well-known brands that contain diazepam are Stesolid and Diazemuls. It is also available generically under the name diazepam and is available as injections, enemas, and tablets.

Tramadol has existed since 1977 and is only available on prescription. It is produced as effervescent tablets, dispersible tablets, capsules, suppositories, drops, and injections. Examples of medications with the active substance tramadol are Tramagetic and Tramal. It is also available as generic tramadol.