Many individuals come across substances in their lives that can provide relief, whether for pain or stress. Sometimes, it’s easy to become dependent, and understanding this dependency is the first step toward recovery. If you or someone you know is battling with the potential misuse of Flexeril, it’s crucial to understand what are the signs of flexeril abuse. Throughout the process of identification and intervention, finding the path to healing becomes clearer at Skywood Recovery. Call us at 269.280.4673 to learn more about our substance use disorder treatment.
What Is Flexeril?
Flexeril, whose generic name is cyclobenzaprine, is a prescription muscle relaxant. It is commonly prescribed to treat muscle spasms and associated pain due to musculoskeletal conditions, like strains or sprains. It functions by blocking nerve impulses (or pain sensations) that are sent to your brain, thereby relieving muscle spasms and the resultant pain.
Flexeril works best when combined with physical therapy and rest to treat such conditions. It is not intended for long-term use and is typically prescribed for periods of two to three weeks.
Can You Get Addicted to Flexeril?
Flexeril is not a narcotic and is not classified under substances with a high potential for addiction like opioids. However, it’s essential to understand the nuanced nature of addiction and how it applies to medications like Flexeril.
Long-term use of many medications, including some muscle relaxants, can lead to a phenomenon known as physical dependence. This means the body may become accustomed to the drug, and abrupt cessation can lead to withdrawal symptoms. However, this is different from addiction, which involves compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite harmful consequences. Physical dependence on Flexeril is relatively uncommon, especially when used as directed.
There’s potential for psychological dependence with nearly any medication, especially those that can alter mood or cognition. Some individuals may come to rely on Flexeril or similar drugs to manage stress, anxiety, or other unrelated symptoms, even if they’re not experiencing muscle spasms. Over time, this can lead to misuse.
What Are The Signs of Flexeril Abuse?
Flexeril is not an addictive substance but it can be misused, causing a feeling of sedation, if abused. So, what are the signs of Flexeril abuse? Some key indicators include:
- Taking larger doses than prescribed
- Consuming Flexeril without a prescription
- Obsessing about the next dose:
- Combining with other substances
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Confusion
- Euphoria
- Anxiety or Irritability
- Depression
If someone exhibits several of these signs, it’s essential to approach the situation with care and concern. Now, let’s delve into the specific Flexeril abuse side effects.
Flexeril Abuse Side Effects
When taken in amounts exceeding the recommended dosage or for extended periods of time without a prescription, Flexeril can lead to several undesirable side effects.
- Central nervous system (CNS) depression – Cyclobenzaprine affects the central nervous system by blocking nerve impulses that lead to muscle spasms. However, abuse can intensify this effect, causing symptoms such as drowsiness or sedation, dizziness, confusion, and slurred speech.
- Cardiovascular effects – Flexeril abuse can also affect the cardiovascular system, leading to abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias), tachycardia (increased heart rate), and hypertension (high blood pressure).
- Digestive system – Abuse can lead to several problems related to the digestive system, such as dry mouth, constipation, nausea, and abdominal discomfort.
- Cognitive and psychological effects – Overuse or misuse of Flexeril can have detrimental effects on mental health and cognitive functioning, such as hallucinations, anxiety, agitation, mood swings, memory issues
- Dependency and withdrawal – Over time, continued misuse can lead to physical and psychological dependence on Flexeril. Withdrawal symptoms may include headaches, nausea, malaise, and irritability.
Combining Flexeril with other drugs, especially CNS depressants like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids, can amplify the side effects, increase the risk of respiratory depression, and could be fatal.
Learn More About Substance Use Disorder Treatment at Skywood Recovery
Overcoming substance abuse is not a journey one should tackle alone. Skywood Recovery is dedicated to supporting those facing the challenges of substance use disorder. Offering a holistic approach, Skywood Recovery not only addresses the physical symptoms of addiction but also the underlying psychological and emotional aspects.
With a team of experienced professionals, Skywood Recovery focuses on creating individualized treatment plans. By understanding the unique story of each patient, we offer tailored interventions to ensure the best chance of long-term recovery. Reach out today at 269.280.4673, and let’s embark on the path to a healthier, more fulfilled you.