Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking chlorzoxazone as follows:
- Chlorzoxazone is mainly metabolized inside the body by the liver and is excreted out of the body in the urine by the kidneys. If liver is deficient, metabolism of the drug could be compromised, which can result in higher concentrations of the drug in the body for longer periods of time. If kidney function is deficient, elimination of the drug could be compromised, which also can result in higher concentrations of the drug in the body for longer periods of time. Either case can contribute to toxicity and consequent side-effects. So, for individuals with history of compromised hepatic and/or renal function, chlorzoxazone could either be avoided for a safer alternative or used with caution, with close monitoring for symptoms of toxicity with chlorzoxazone. Discuss with your physician regarding your history of hepatic and/or renal function compromise, if any, to be certain regarding your safety with intake of chlorzoxazone.
- Chlorzoxazone can also induce hepatic dysfunction and liver toxicity, leading to fatal liver failure. Individuals can present with symptoms of liver failure, such as, jaundice with yellowing of skin and eyes, itching of skin, upper right abdominal pain, abdominal distension, nausea and vomiting, confusion and disorientation, fluid retention in the body with swelling, and compromised appetite. Chlorzoxazone could best be avoided for a safer alternative or used with extra caution with close watch for signs and symptoms of liver failure in individuals with history of compromised liver function.
- If you miss a dose, try taking it at the earliest notice of noncompliance. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the dose scheduled. Do not take an extra dose to try making up for the missed dose, which can result in toxicity. Notify your doctor and other health care personnel regarding your dose noncompliance.
- Chlorzoxazone could be avoided for a safer alternative or used with extreme caution in individuals with history of severe head injury and brain damage. Individuals with history of head injury and brain damage can be at high risk to present with severe depression of brain and associated respiratory and cardiovascular centers with chlorzoxazone, leading to complications such as, coma, respiratory arrest, dangerous hypotension, and bradycardia, which can be fatal. Discuss with your physician regarding your history of severe head injury and brain damage, if any, to be certain regarding your safety with intake of chlorzoxazone.
