Methocarbamol

Centrally-acting skeletal muscle relaxant for muscle spasm, strychnine/tetanus toxicity, and spasticity. Centrally-acting skeletal muscle relaxant. Mechanism: CNS depression of interneurons controlling polysynaptic reflexes → skeletal muscle relaxation without neuromuscular blockade. Used for muscle hypertonicity (tetanus, strychnine toxicity, exertional myopathy). IV or oral administration. Key information Centrally acting muscle relaxant. Store at room temperature. May cause sedation — advise clients. Inject IV slowly (not to exceed 3 mL/min). May cause hemolysis with rapid IV administration. Do not use in animals with myasthenia gravis.

IV: dilute and administer slowly. IM: deep IM injection. Oral: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Urine discoloration (green-brown) is expected. 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.

Sedation, ataxia, weakness. GI: nausea, vomiting, salivation. Hypotension, cardiovascular depression (IV — administer slowly). Urine discoloration (green-brown — expected, inform clients).

For animals IV: administer slowly. Reduce dose or extend interval in renal impairment. Use with caution in hepatic impairment. Urine color change expected. 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.

Contact your veterinarian. Methocarbamol overdose causes profound sedation, weakness, and loss of coordination. IV: rapid infusion causes hemolysis. Supportive care. Contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a veterinary professional.