About tizanidine

Long-term muscle stiffness can occur in multiple sclerosis and other conditions where there has been damage to nerves that supply muscles. In these cases, the muscles may contract (or shorten) tightly, and can then become stiff and harder to use. This is called muscle spasticity.

Tizanidine works by relaxing the muscles and preventing spasms which reduces any associated pain and discomfort.

Before taking tizanidine

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking tizanidine it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, such as herbal and complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take tizanidine

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The leaflet will give you more information about the specific brand of tizanidine you have been given, and a full list of possible side-effects from taking it.
• When starting this treatment, your doctor will give you a small dose (one tablet daily) and then gradually increase the dose so that you will be taking 1-2 tablets three or four times a day. This allows your doctor to make sure that you have the dose that helps your condition and avoids any unwanted symptoms. Take the tablets exactly as your doctor has told you. Your dose will also be on the label of the pack to remind you.
• You can take tizanidine tablets before or after your meals.
• Try to take your doses at the same times of day, each day. This will help you to remember to take them. If you do forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember (unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose). Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress. You will need to have some blood tests from time to time to check that your liver is working properly.
• Tizanidine may cause drowsiness. If this happens to you, do not drive or use tools or machines, as this may put yourself and others at risk.
• It is recommended that you do not drink alcohol while you are on tizanidine. Taking tizanidine and alcohol increases the chance that you may experience side-effects such as feeling sleepy or dizzy.
• Treatment with tizanidine is usually long-term, so keep taking these tablets unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Suddenly stopping treatment may cause problems, so your doctor will want you to reduce your dose gradually if this is necessary.
• If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can tizanidine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Important: if you develop jaundice (yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes) or dark urine, speak with your doctor starightaway. These are signs that there may be a problem with your liver.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store tizanidine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines