Taking Cyclobenzaprine With Gabapentin
In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses the potential interaction between cyclobenzaprine and gabapentin.
I have small cell AGGRESSIVE carcinoma, and also RLS. I Am unable to sleep due to RLS, so was wondering what would happen if took both Flexeril and Gabapentin?
Jul 22, 2022- Taking cyclobenzaprine and gabapentin together may increase central nervous system side effects such as drowsiness, confusion, balance problems, weakness, and potentially respiratory depression.
- Patients with certain health conditions like lung problems should check with their doctor before taking both drugs together, especially due to the risk of respiratory depression.
- If you have taken these drugs before without significant side effects and your health is stable, your doctor may determine it is appropriate for you to take both medications at the same time.
Answer
Taking cyclobenzaprine and gabapentin together may cause an increase in central nervous system (CNS) side effects. These side effects can include:
- Problems with coordination and/or balance
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Weakness
- Respiratory depression
For most patients, this interaction is something that can be monitored. However, for a patient with small cell carcinoma, this interaction may pose a problem, especially with the potential for respiratory depression.
Not knowing the particulars of your current health condition, it would be best to check with your current doctor. If these are drugs you have taken before without too many side effects and your health, particularly your lung function, is stable, your doctor may feel it is an appropriate therapy for you to take both drugs at the same time. Below is some more information on both drugs.
What Is Flexeril?
Flexeril (Cyclobenzaprine) is a skeletal muscle relaxer. It is typically used for the short-term relief of muscle spasms. The most common side effects are:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Confusion/decreased mental acuity
- Irritability
- Nervousness
Patients should be cautious driving or operating machinery until the effects of the drug are known. Patients should also be cautious when combining with other medications that can cause the CNS side effects of drowsiness or respiratory depression.
What Is Neurontin?
While gabapentin is classified as an anticonvulsant used in the treatment of seizures and postherpetic neuralgia (a complication of shingles), it is often used for off-label treatment of other conditions. Off-label use is when a drug is used for an unapproved indication and has not been approved by the FDA for that indication. Off-label uses of gabapentin include:
- Treatment of alcohol dependence
- Alcohol withdrawal
- Chronic cough
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Fibromyalgia
- Hiccups
- Hot flashes
- Neuropathic pain
- Restless legs syndrome (RLS)
- Social anxiety disorder
- Chronic itching
The most common side effects of Gabapentin include:
- Dizziness
- Coordination problems
- Fatigue
- Nausea/vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tremor
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Headache
Final Words
Taking Flexeril (Cyclobenzaprine) and Gabapentin together may result in an increase in CNS side effects like drowsiness, respiratory depression, confusion, balance problems or weakness. Patients who may have health problems, like small cell carcinoma, that could put them at an increased risk of side effects should check with their doctor before taking both drugs together.
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- Central nervous system (CNS)
- The brain and spinal cord that control body functions and consciousness.
- Skeletal muscle relaxer
- A medication that reduces tension and stiffness in muscles throughout the body.
- Muscle spasms
- Sudden, involuntary tightening of muscles that causes pain or discomfort.
- Respiratory depression
- A slowing of breathing that can reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the body.
- Anticonvulsant
- A medication used to prevent or control seizures.
- Postherpetic neuralgia
- Persistent nerve pain that occurs after a shingles infection.
- Off-label use
- Using a medication to treat a condition that the FDA has not officially approved it for.
- Small cell carcinoma
- A type of cancer that commonly affects the lungs and grows quickly.
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Doctor of Pharmacy, board certified clinical pharmacist (BCPS), American Herbalist Guild, Medication Therapy Management certified
Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS, is a licensed pharmacist with more than 13 years of experience across retail pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, medication safety, pharmacy program development, and healthcare administration. He is the founder of HelloPharmacist.com, where he helps patients...
More answers from Brian →