Have you been taking muscle relaxers for a long time and now you feel withdrawal symptoms when you try to avoid them? Well, it can occur to anyone, and let’s see how to get rid of them.
Yes, muscle relaxants can be addictive. Some of these are highly sensitive and come under controlled substances. The use of these can especially increase the risk of addiction. Building tolerance and addiction to these medicines can be very risky. Proper management and treatment are essential in this condition to avoid any severe complications.
This comprehensive guide will educate you all about muscle relaxant addiction and how to get rid of it. Carefully read and understand the signs and symptoms for a timely diagnosis if you are using this medicine.
What Are Muscle Relaxers?
Muscle relaxers are medications that are used to treat muscle spasms and stiffness. These are often prescribed for conditions like muscle strains, sprains, or injuries. They work by targeting your central nervous system to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. These medications may also cause drowsiness and other potential side effects as well. The dependency primarily depends on the type of muscle relaxant you are using. Let’s check out its common types.
Types Of Muscle Relaxants
Muscle relaxant types depend on their effects. Some provide antispasmodic effects, while others have antispasmodic effects. There is also another category that causes both effects. The common ones include:
- Cyclobenzaprine (Fexmid, Flexeril)
- Methocarbamol (Robaxin)
- Orphenadrine (Norflex)
- Chlorzoxazone (Lorzone, Remular S, etc.)
- Carisoprodol (Soma, Vanadom)
- Metaxalone (Metaxall, Skelaxin)
- Tizanidine (Zanaflex)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Baclofen (Lioresal)
- Dantrolene (Dantrium)
Can You Get Addicted To Muscle Relaxers?
Muscle relaxant addiction depends on the type you are using. Some of these are highly sensitive and fall under the category of controlled substances. Using these in high dosages or for longer durations may lead to dependence or addiction. Carisoprodol and diazepam are the common ones that fall under controlled substances.
Using other muscle relaxers may not cause addiction. If you are using prescribed ones, then you should use them carefully. Follow your doctor’s instructions to stay safe from these effects. Avoid using them in excess, and inform your doctor immediately in case you notice any of these effects.
Signs And Symptoms Of Muscle Relaxer Addiction
These are the common signs and symptoms that indicate dependency or addiction. If these sound familiar, then consult your doctor and follow his instructions to get rid of them without any withdrawal symptoms.
- Tolerance escalation: The first one is tolerance escalation. It means you need a higher dose to get the same results after some time. It shows you are building tolerance.
- Compulsive usage: It means engaging in repeated and uncontrollable use of muscle relaxers, despite negative consequences and a desire to stop.
- Social withdrawal: As the name indicates, you stopped being social. You gradually start withdrawing from social activities, relationships, etc.
- Neglecting responsibilities: The third symptom is neglecting responsibilities. It means failing to fulfill personal, academic, or professional duties due to the use of muscle relaxers.
- Risky behaviors: The next symptom on our list is risky behavior. You may engage in hazardous activities due to the influence of this medicine. You may even risk your personal safety as well.
- Loss of interest in hobbies: Another symptom of this addiction is losing interest in previously enjoyed activities and being more focused on the use of this medicine. These include your hobbies and other activities.
- Heightened secrecy: These symptoms mean you try to hide the use of muscle relaxants and their addiction.
- Emotional instability: It can also cause emotional instability. This includes mood swings, increased irritability, and other emotional disturbances. You will notice these behaviors when you are not taking them.
- Continued use despite consequences: The last symptom we have is persistent use of muscle relaxers, even with negative impacts. You are unable to stop their use despite knowing or experiencing harmful effects.
How To Get Rid Of Muscle Relaxers Addiction?
It can be very challenging to deal with an addiction to muscle relaxants. But a timely diagnosis and the right treatment can help you get rid of it. Your doctor will recommend the best medicines and lifestyle advice to help you get rid of this dependence. Here are some practical steps that you can take to get rid of this addiction:
- Seek professional help.
- Gradual Tapering
- Therapy
- Support Groups
- Healthy lifestyle changes
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
- Avoid Triggers
- Build a support network.
- Practice Self-Care
- Stay Committed
Final Words
Yes, muscle relaxers can be addictive. These can develop both physical and mental dependence symptoms. That’s why these are usually prescribed for short-term usage. Strictly follow your doctor’s usage instructions if you are using the controlled or prescribed ones.
Moreover, ensure a healthy lifestyle alongside the use of this medicine to prevent its potential effects. These may include staying hydrated, eating healthy food, and performing any physical activity. Closely monitor the effects of the medicine during use and be on the lookout for any sort of dependence symptoms. It will ensure the safe use of this medicine.