Major Research Findings

Metaxalone is a commonly prescribed muscle relaxant used to treat muscle spasms and discomfort. 3 is a review examining the efficacy, side effects, and safety of three commonly prescribed skeletal muscle relaxants: metaxalone, cyclobenzaprine, and carisoprodol. The review found that metaxalone has the fewest reported side effects and no reports of major safety issues. 1 is a study that investigated new crystalline forms of metaxalone, called cocrystals, which improve its solubility. Metaxalone has poor aqueous solubility, which impacts its bioavailability. Cocrystallization is a promising strategy to address this problem.

Reasons for Side Effects

Metaxalone works by acting on the central nervous system to relieve muscle tension. As a result, it may cause side effects related to the central nervous system. 3 found that metaxalone has fewer side effects than other muscle relaxants and no safety issues have been reported.

Common Side Effects

Drowsiness

Metaxalone may cause drowsiness. 3

Dizziness

Metaxalone may cause dizziness. 3

Nausea

Metaxalone may cause nausea. 3

Indigestion

Metaxalone may cause indigestion. 3

Constipation

Metaxalone may cause constipation. 3

Headache

Metaxalone may cause headache. 3

Fatigue

Metaxalone may cause fatigue. 3

Lightheadedness

Metaxalone may cause lightheadedness. 3

Blurred vision

Metaxalone may cause blurred vision. 3

Side Effect Countermeasures

Drowsiness

If you experience drowsiness, avoid driving or operating machinery. 3

Dizziness

If you experience dizziness, get up slowly and be aware of your surroundings. 3

Nausea

If you experience nausea, eat small, frequent meals. 3

Indigestion

If you experience indigestion, eat bland foods. 3

Constipation

If you experience constipation, eat foods high in fiber. 3

Headache

If you have a severe headache, consult your doctor. 3

Fatigue

If you experience severe fatigue, get plenty of rest. 3

Lightheadedness

If you experience lightheadedness, get up slowly and be aware of your surroundings. 3

Blurred vision

If you experience blurred vision, avoid driving or operating machinery. 3

Comparison of Studies

Commonalities of Studies

All three studies showed that metaxalone is an effective drug for relieving muscle spasms and pain. 3 , 1 , 2

Differences in Studies

3 is a review of the efficacy, side effects, and safety of three commonly prescribed skeletal muscle relaxants: metaxalone, cyclobenzaprine, and carisoprodol. In contrast, 1 is a study that investigated the improvement of metaxalone's solubility through cocrystallization. 2 is a study on the use of muscle relaxants in the management of pain in rheumatoid arthritis.

Notes on Applying Research to Real Life

Metaxalone is an effective drug for relieving muscle spasms and pain. However, it may cause side effects such as drowsiness. Therefore, if you are engaging in activities that require attention, such as driving or operating machinery, avoid taking metaxalone or refrain from performing such activities for a while after taking it. 3

Limitations of Current Research

There is not enough research on the side effects of metaxalone. Therefore, information on the side effects of metaxalone is still incomplete.

Future Research Directions

Further research on the side effects of metaxalone is needed. In particular, there are many points that remain unclear, such as the effects of long-term use of metaxalone, the effects on the elderly and children, and so on.

Conclusion

Metaxalone is an effective drug for relieving muscle spasms and pain. However, it may cause side effects such as drowsiness. Therefore, when taking metaxalone, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions and be aware of side effects. 3