|
Orphenadrine
Brand
Name: Norflex
Most
Common Medical Uses
Orphenadrine
is a muscle relaxant. It works by blocking nerve impulses (or pain
sensations) that are sent to your brain. Orphenadrine is commonly
used, along with rest and physical therapy, to treat injuries and
other painful muscular conditions. Orphenadrine may also be used
for purposes other than those listed here.
How
to Take This Medication
Take
orphenadrine exactly as directed by your doctor. Take each dose
with a full glass of water. Orphenadrine is usually taken two tablets
per day; one in the morning and one in the evening. Follow your
doctor's instructions. Do not crush or chew the extended-release
tablets. Swallow them whole. They are specially formulated to release
slowly in your body.
Possible
Side Effects
Stop
taking orphenadrine and seek emergency medical attention if you
experience any of the following:an allergic reaction (difficulty
breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue,
or face; or hives); an irregular or a very fast heartbeat; or confusion,
hallucinations, or abnormal behavior. Other, less serious side effects
may be more likely to occur. Continue to take orphenadrine and talk
to your doctor if you experience dry mouth; drowsiness or dizziness;
headache; tremor; blurred vision or large pupils. Side effects other
than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about
any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome
Precautions
Do
not take orphenadrine if you have glaucoma, an obstruction or an
ulcer in your stomach, an enlarged prostate or a blockage in your
urinary tract (difficulty urinating), or myasthenia gravis. Before
taking orphenadrine, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease,
liver disease, or heart disease. You may need a lower dose or special
monitoring during your therapy. Do not take orphenadrine without
first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding
a baby. Orphenadrine is not approved for use in children.
Drug
Interactions
Tell
your doctor if you are taking amantadine (Symmetrel) before starting
orphenadrine therapy. Orphenadrine and amantadine (Symmetrel) can
both cause side effects such as dry mouth, difficulty urinating,
constipation, blurred vision, and others. Together, these side effects
may be more pronounced. Many drugs can increase the effects of orphenadrine,
which can lead to heavy sedation. Before taking this medication,
tell your doctor if you are taking any medicines. Drugs other than
those listed here may also interact with orphenadrine. Talk to your
doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter
medicines.
Missed
Dose
Take
the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost
time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your
next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this
medication.
Storage
Store
at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all
medications out of the reach of children.
Notes
Use
caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous
activities. Orphenadrine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you
experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Use
alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness
while you are taking orphenadrine. Do not crush or chew the extended-release
tablets. Swallow them whole. They are specially formulated to release
slowly in your body. Never share your medications with others.
|
