Methocarbamol Tablets
Call to order(859) 281-9511General Drug Information and Indications
Centrally-acting skeletal muscle relaxant (methocarbamol) for muscle spasm and ataxia in horses and small animals; tetanus adjunct.
Centrally-acting skeletal muscle relaxant (methocarbamol). Mechanism: acts at the level of the spinal cord interneurons to inhibit polysynaptic neural reflexes involved in muscle spasm → generalized muscle relaxation. Does not directly affect neuromuscular junction or skeletal muscle. Hepatically glucuronidated; urinary excretion.
Key information
Methocarbamol — see methocarbamol entry. Store at room temperature. IV: do not exceed 3 mL/min. May cause hemolysis with rapid IV.
How to Give this Medication
IV: dilute in 0.9% NaCl or sterile water; Administer IV slowly; rapid infusion may cause adverse reactions. (do not exceed 2 mL/min IV) to avoid cardiovascular depression. IM: inject deep IM — limit volume per site. Oral: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one.
Side Effects
CNS sedation, ataxia, weakness (dose-dependent). GI: nausea, vomiting. IV: hypotension, cardiovascular depression (polyethylene glycol vehicle in injectable formulation — give slowly). Urine discoloration (green/brown — expected). Hepatic/renal dysfunction with prolonged use.
Precautions
For animals
IV: administer slowly (polyethylene glycol vehicle — cardiovascular depression). Reduce dose or extend interval in renal impairment. Use with caution in hepatic impairment. Urine discoloration (green/brown) expected — inform owners.
For people handling this medication
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Muscle relaxant — may cause drowsiness if accidentally ingested. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Methocarbamol overdose causes sedation and weakness. Supportive care required.
Methocarbamol Tablets dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| METHOCARBAM INJ 100MG/ML | 100MG/ML | Injectable | — | Commercial |
| METHOCARBAM TAB 500MG | 500MG | Tablet | — | Commercial |
| METHOCARBAMOL TAB 750MG | 750 MG | Tablet | 1 | Commercial |
| METHOCARBAMOL TAB 750MG | 750 MG ( | Tablet | 1 | Commercial |
| METHOCARBAMOL TAB 750MG | 750MG | Tablet | — | Commercial |
| METHOCARBAMOL TAB 750MG | 750MG | Tablet | — | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)