Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Metaxalone as follows:
- Metaxalone is extensively metabolized in the liver and the inactive metabolites are mainly excreted in the urine. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of metaxalone can be compromised. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication for longer periods of time, resulting in increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity. So, in individuals with history of compromised liver function, metaxalone must be used with caution and possible multiple dose adjustments, periodical monitoring for liver functions and development of any toxicity symptoms with the medication.
- Metaxalone could interact with a number of other medications and can precipitate serious reactions. If you are being newly started on metaxalone, discuss with your physician regarding all other medications you are currently taking and their safety with metaxalone. Also, if you have been taking metaxalone for long, discuss with your physician regarding your history of metaxalone intake, when you are being started on any new medication.
- Metaxalone use, especially in individuals with history of mood disorders, can occasionally result in exacerbation of mania and depressive symptoms, changes in behavior, hallucinations, and compromised sexual drive. Metaxalone must either be avoided for an alternative or used with extra caution in individuals with such history, to prevent exacerbation of mood disorders.
- Metaxalone use in expectant mothers could increase risk for pregnancy complications. Newborns could also present with harmful side-effects of the medication. Use of metaxalone is discouraged in pregnant women, unless the potential benefits of use significantly outweigh the potential risks for the fetus. So, metaxalone is either avoided for an alternative safer drug or cautiously administered with careful monitoring for complications during pregnancy and in women planning for pregnancy. Women in the child-bearing age group taking metaxalone regularly must employ effective contraceptive measures in order to avoid getting pregnant.
