Flexeril

CathyMe. · Post by **CathyMe.** » Mon Apr 27, 2015 9:26 am

Hi Everyone,
I was in a car accident in October where a guy ran a red light and slammed into the front of my Jeep. I have been experiencing major neck/back issues sense then and have been doing PT, massage therapy, had steroid injections and other exercises with little to no pain relief. I do take tramadol and have had no negative issues (I've been experiencing normans for over a year). My question is my neurologist wants me to give muscle relaxers a try and I'm wondering if anyone has tried Flexeril or another option? I don't want to take it if it's going to mess up my belly and was looking for any insight from you folks! Thanks for any help.

Vanessa · Post by **Vanessa** » Mon Apr 27, 2015 10:39 am

Hey Cathy,
I have not had flexeril since my 20's. I just wanted to give you some background on the tramadol. Drs will tell you that it is a non habit forming, non addictive pain medicine. This is not true. I know everyone is different but I got myself into real trouble with it (had a foot injury) not being properly informed. Not only does it work on the same pain receptors as heroin, it also works as an SSRI. When I stopped taking it I was very sick for awhile, plus my neuro transmitters had to catch up. I never put two and two together as to why I was feeling so good and energetic until I would get sick when it was close to take my next dose. And it will make you constipated which is a good side effect for us. Just be careful and informed. If you stop taking it, taper down. The docs won't tell you that.....many think it's harmless. I'm sorry for the Debbie downer message I just wished someone would have told me, of course everyone is different!

CathyMe. · Post by **CathyMe.** » Mon Apr 27, 2015 10:48 am

Vanessa wrote:Hey Cathy,
Drs will tell you that it is a non habit forming, non addictive pain medicine. This is not true.

Hi Vanessa,
Thanks for this and yes, I've been told it's a non-addictive, "relatively mild", pain reliever. While I don't take it everyday, it works for me when I need it and it doesn't upset my belly at all so I'll continue to use it. I have both my PCP and my neurologist wanting to give me stronger meds (oxy) which I refuse to take so we shall see what I can find out about the flexeril. Up until about 3 weeks ago, my weekly massage was keeping me pretty comfortable but I think my last steroid shot has worn off as I'm just miserable! I have 4 more injections scheduled this Friday and hopefully I can get some relief!

Post by **tex** » Mon Apr 27, 2015 11:17 am

Cathy,

I can't find any research articles describing any association between Flexeril and colitis. There are a few comments on UC boards suggesting that it doesn't seem to cause any UC flares. Other than that, I know nothing about it.

Good luck with it.

Tex

JFR · Post by **JFR** » Mon Apr 27, 2015 12:13 pm

I have taken Flexeril. It didn't cause GI issues but it knocks me out so badly that I can't do anything but sleep. It really helps with muscle spasms from back issues but it makes me non-functional, just not in pain.

CathyMe. · Post by **CathyMe.** » Mon Apr 27, 2015 12:28 pm

Thanks tex and Jean. That's what I'm afraid of Jean but at least nice to know my gut should be okay with it. I may try some at bedtime.

Hopeful · Post by **Hopeful** » Mon Apr 27, 2015 2:36 pm

I have a standing prescription for Tramadol which I use, 1/2 tab at a time, when absolutely needed for various pains. Especially at bedtime. Slightly constipating at this dose. I like knowing that "it's in my tool belt" when I need it, but suspect that one could easily become dependent on it...
Chris

maestraz · Post by **maestraz** » Wed Apr 29, 2015 7:51 pm

Hi Cathy,
I have taken Flexaril as needed for back spasms for some years. It does not bother my gut at all, and does not knock me out. I don't have the dosage (must be relatively low) right in front of me, but I have driven with no problem after taking it, and have taught classes all day with no issue.

CathyMe. · Post by **CathyMe.** » Thu Apr 30, 2015 4:43 am

Hi Suze,
Thanks. I have taken it for 2 nights right before I go to bed. I have been sleeping pretty well lately but man I slept like a rock the past 2 nights! It has helped my neck hugely and I don't wake up all crippled up. Having said that though, I have not had a BM in 2 days ): Very unusual for me. I'm extremely thirsty and have been sucking down the water both yesterday and today. I think I'm going to have to just use it in emergencies when I am really bad.

Heathurricane · Post by **Heathurricane** » Sat Jul 02, 2016 2:04 am

I know this is an old post, but was wondering if you can post an update. My Dr just prescribed me Flexaril for muscles pain (usually worse with bad weather) and tramadol for nerve issues. I haven't taken these for three years and am still new to CC, so was curious on how it's affecting you. I want to avoid my flare ups (of course), as I usually only get a few weeks of breaks between flares so far.

hollyweb · Post by **hollyweb** » Mon Jul 04, 2016 11:29 am

Isn't it wonderful to be able to run these questions by the members here? Mine may not be helpful; however, I did take Flexeril without any gut, dependency/driving or other issues for a couple of years for back spasm. This was about 3 years BEFORE my MC diagnosis. It's a good thing (in my opinion) to really think about what meds to take/not take, and not just accept a doctor's word as necessarily being what's best for YOU. Best of luck on this!