Methocarbamol (Robaxin) is a muscle relaxant used to treat acute pain and spasms in musculoskeletal conditions. Methocarbamol can cause side effects, which are typically mild and short-lasting, although severe side effects and risks can occur. Risks are increased if methocarbamol is used alongside other medications or substances.Â
- Methocarbamol can cause side effects that are usually limited to the start of a new treatment.
- Serious side effects can occur, which may require a change in dosage, cessation of methocarbamol treatment, or other medical treatment.
- Methocarbamol can cause dangerous risks, particularly if it is taken long-term and in high doses or if it is used in combination with alcohol or other substances.
Common side effects of methocarbamol
Side effects are common when commencing a new medication. Methocarbamol treatment can result in mild and transient side effects that will typically improve within a few days or weeks. If side effects do not go away or if they worsen, contact a medical professional.
Common side effects of methocarbamol can include: [1][2]
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Blurred vision
- Change in urine color (blue or green)
- HeadacheÂ
- Impaired memory and cognitive function
Serious side effects and warning signs
In some cases, serious side effects can occur. If any of the following side effects emerge when taking methocarbamol, contact the prescribing physician immediately, as a change in dosage or treatment may be required: [1][2]
- Allergic reactions, such as rash or hives, fever, or swelling of the face or mouth
- Extreme sedation and drowsiness
- Extreme impairments in cognitive function, such as severe confusion
- Significant slowing in breathing rate
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Dark urine
- Stomach pain or upset that doesn’t get better
- Slowed heart rate or heart palpitations
- SeizuresÂ
- Syncope (fainting)
- Significant drops in blood pressure
Drug interactions that increase side effects
Methocarbamol acts as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. If other CNS depressants are used concurrently, the risk of side effects increases and may cause serious harm, such as respiratory depression. CNS depressants include opioids, benzodiazepines, sleep medications, other muscle relaxants, and alcohol. These medications can also lower the seizure threshold, making the risk of convulsions higher. [2][3]
Combining methocarbamol with anticholinergic medications, such as antihistamines, Parkinson’s medications, and certain antipsychotics and antidepressants, can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness, confusion, and blurred vision. [3]
Methocarbamol and alcohol
Alcohol should not be consumed while taking methocarbamol. This combination can increase the risk of impaired coordination and cognitive function, which can lead to accidental harm, and increase the risk of CNS depressant effects, such as respiratory depression and oversedation. [1]
Long-term use and withdrawal insights
There is limited scientific literature relating to the long-term use of methocarbamol and its potential to cause withdrawal symptoms. Methocarbamol is intended for short-term use only, up to a few weeks, which reduces the risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms. [4]
Methocarbamol is not a controlled substance and is believed to have a low potential for abuse or addiction. However, if methocarbamol is used long-term and in high doses, it may be more likely for withdrawal symptoms to occur with cessation, particularly if it is stopped abruptly.Â
Risk of methocarbamol dependence and addiction
Methocarbamol is not typically considered to be an addictive substance. As such, it is not listed as a controlled substance. However, there are some records of methocarbamol abuse and dependence. This is more likely to occur with high-dose and long-term use, and in polysubstance use. [3][5]
Methocarbamol can increase the sedative and analgesic effects of other medications. It can also increase CNS depressant effects. These effects might increase the risk of abuse, as they may be a sought-after ‘high’.
Signs of methocarbamol overdose
Methocarbamol can cause overdose when taken in high doses or when used in combination with other substances, particularly other CNS depressants. In some instances, methocarbamol overdose may be fatal. Signs of an overdose can include: [2][3]
- Nausea and vomiting
- Extreme sedation and drowsiness
- Blurred vision
- Extreme changes in heart rate
- Trouble breathing
- Stopped breathing
- SeizuresÂ
- Loss of consciousness
If a methocarbamol overdose is suspected, contact a medical professional. In case of an emergency, such as respiratory depression, seizures, or loss of consciousness, call 911 for urgent medical attention.
Treatment can include monitoring and management of symptoms, including supported breathing, intravenous fluids, and activated charcoal. [2][3]
Managing and minimizing side effects
Tips to manage and minimize side effects of methocarbamol include:
- Taking the correct dosage at the correct time.
- Eat food before taking methocarbamol to prevent nausea.
- Stay hydrated, as this can help with symptoms such as headaches and lightheadedness.
- When standing from sitting or lying down, stand up slowly, as this can help reduce dizziness.
- Do not drive until you know how the medication will affect you.
- Do not take methocarbamol for longer than recommended.
- Do not drink or take other substances while taking this medication.
- Medications can help with some symptoms, such as acetaminophen for headaches or anti-nausea medications, although it is important to check with a doctor before using a medication.
- Discuss side effects with the prescribing doctor, as it may be necessary to reduce the dosage.
- If serious or concerning side effects emerge, or any side effects persist for longer than a few weeks, report these to a doctor.
When to seek medical help
People taking methocarbamol should meet with their doctor for medication reviews regularly, to ensure the safety and effectiveness of their treatment. It may be necessary to seek medical help in between these reviews if:
- Side effects do not go away, or they worsen.
- Serious side effects occur.
- Other medical issues occur that require medication, as these medications might interact with methocarbamol.
- Overdose or severe effects of methocarbamol are recognized, particularly oversedation, seizures, difficulty or stopped breathing, or loss of consciousness.
- Signs of abuse and addiction emerge, such as increasing frequency or amount of use, or impairments in various aspects of life due to methocarbamol use.
In these instances, a professional can provide advice and any necessary treatment. This might involve reducing the dosage or stopping methocarbamol treatment, providing medical care to manage side effects or overdose, or referrals to specialist services.Â
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