Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant medication that works by blocking nerve impulses, or, in simpler words, the pain sensations that are sent to your brain. It is prescribed to reduce involuntary muscle spasms as well as pain and discomfort by inhibiting the firing of the nerve endings. Robaxin is a brand name of methocarbamol.
The exact mechanism of action of methocarbamol is not yet fully understood. Researchers think that Robaxin’s effectiveness may be related to its impact on the enzyme carbonic anhydrase.
Pregnant mothers and those who are breastfeeding may want to avoid taking methocarbamol. Early research indicates that taking Robaxin during pregnancy may increase the chances of congenital birth defects. Methocarbamol may cause conflicts with medications that act as anticholinesterase agents. Share with your doctor if you have a history of myasthenia gravis.
The medicine should be taken as directed by the doctor, but you can also purchase Robaxin online from a certified online pharmacy.
Ingredients of Robaxin
Robaxin contains one active ingredient, methocarbamol, which is an effective muscle relaxant that reduces muscle spasms.
Along with methocarbamol, Robaxin contains a few inactive ingredients as well, namely
- Corn-starch
- Magnesium stearate
- Povidone
- Sodium lauryl sulfate
- Sodium starch glycolate
- Stearic acid
Dosage:
The usual adult dose:
For the relief of symptoms of moderate degree, one dose of 1 gram (one 10 mL vial) IV or IM once may be adequate once then switched orally.
Ordinarily this injection need not be repeated, as the administration of the oral form will usually sustain the relief initiated by the injection.
For the severest cases or in postoperative conditions in which oral administration is not feasible, additional doses of 1 gram may be repeated every 8 hours up to a maximum of 3 g/day for no more than 3 consecutive days.
There is clinical evidence which suggests that methocarbamol may have a beneficial effect in the control of the neuromuscular manifestations of tetanus. It does not, however, replace the usual procedure of debridement, tetanus antitoxin, penicillin, tracheotomy, attention to fluid balance, and supportive care. ROBAXIN Injectable should be added to the regimen as soon as possible.
For Pediatric Patients:
A minimum initial dose of 15 mg/kg or 500 mg/m² is recommended. This dosage may be repeated every six hours, if required. The total dose should not exceed 1.8 g/m² for 3 consecutive days. The maintenance dosage may be given by injection into tubing or by I.V. infusion with an appropriate quantity of fluid.
The maximum dosage for an adult is 3g in a span of 24 hours. A higher dosage is recommended for post-operative conditions in the first 48 to 72 hours; the dosage should be gradually reduced to 4000 mg once a day.
Side Effects Of Robaxin
The following adverse reactions have been reported coincident with the administration of methocarbamol.
- Cardiovascular system: Bradycardia, flushing, hypotension, syncope and thrombophlebitis
- Digestive system: Dyspepsia, jaundice, nausea and vomiting
- Hematopoietic and lymphatic system: Leukopenia
- Immune system: Hypersensitivity reactions
- Nervous system: Amnesia, confusion, diplopia, dizziness or light-headedness, drowsiness, insomnia, mild muscular incoordination, nystagmus, sedation, seizures and vertigo
- Skin and special senses: Blurred vision, conjunctivitis, nasal congestion, metallic taste, pruritus, rash and urticaria
- Other: Pain and sloughing at the site of injection
Robaxin can have some serious side effects on some patients, such as a lightheaded feeling like you may pass out, a slow heartbeat, seizure, jaundice, pain,/bruising/ ,swelling, or skin changes. Consult a doctor immediately if you start seeing these side effects.
Why Shouldn’t You Mix Alcohol And Robaxin?
Robaxin or methocarbamol is a muscle relaxing medication. Consuming alcohol with a muscle relaxing is discouraged by medical experts because both muscle relaxants and alcohol depress your central nervous system. They slow down your brain activity, which further slows down your heart rate and your breathing as well.
Since both Robaxin and alcohol have a depressing effect on your body, consuming both will create a compound and intensify the side effects they possess that’s mean the side effects like dizziness and drowsiness will be doubled.
Effects of Alcohol Mixed With Intake Of Robaxin.
Consuming alcohol with Robaxin and Soma is not advisable. Alcohol can cause severe effects on your body if taken along with Robaxin.
As mentioned earlier, Robaxin alone can make you lightheaded, dizzy, and drowsy; if you consume alcohol with Robaxin, it will act as a catalyst and will strengthens all side effects that Robaxin, as well as alcohol, has on the central nervous system.
Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of methocarbamol such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Some people may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment
Patients taking high dosages of Robaxin are at increased risk of its side effects, which range from normal dizziness and drowsiness to potentially fatal heart rate fluctuations and suicidal thoughts.
If you have been experiencing such side effects, you must speak with your doctor immediately. Alcohol can intensify such side effects and cause a serious threat to your life. Mixing alcohol with Robaxin can lead to unmanageable drowsiness and poor coordination.
Mixing alcohol with Robaxin can have some severe side effects like:
- Increased drowsiness or tiredness
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Slowed breathing
- Reduced motor control or coordination.
- Problems with memory.
- Increased risk of seizure
- Increased risk of overdose
Both alcohol and muscle relaxants are addictive substances. Long-term use of Robaxin can increase the risk of being addicted to it.
What To Do If You Have Already Mixed Alcohol With Robaxin?
If you have already mixed alcohol with Robaxin, stop drinking immediately. This might help you not to increase the side effects. It is advised to seek help from a medical professional if you notice these symptoms:
- Vomiting or nausea
- Slowed breathing
- Feeling weak
- Impaired movement/ lack of coordination
- Palpitation or arrhythmias
- Low blood pressure
- Seizures
Conclusion
Robaxin being a muscle relaxant, can cause depressive impacts on your body, and mixing alcohol with it will not only double the side effects but also prove to be fatal for your life due to the possibility of increased drowsiness and poor coordination.
Do not use more than the recommended dose of methocarbamol, and avoid activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
So, It is not advisable to consume alcohol while taking Robaxin.
You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with methocarbamol.
If you find yourself consuming alcohol along with Robaxin, get immediate medical help as soon as possible. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.
References:
- (Lee, W.S., Lee, J.Y., Sung, W., and Seo, S.W., 2014) From American Journal Of Medicine Accessed on November 1 2021.
- (Ferslew, K.E., Hagardorn, A.N. and McCormick, W.F., 1990) From PubMed accessed on November 1 2021.
