Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Flexeril as follows:
Respiratory depression
- Flexeril, especially when taken in high doses, can lead to depression of respiratory center in the brain and consequently cause exacerbation of SOB, and difficult breathing.
- This risk with flexeril can be even high when it is taken along with any other products and medications causing central nervous depression, such as, alcohol, antidepressants, antianxiety medications, opioid pain medications, and sedatives.
- Individuals with history of breathing disorders, such as, asthma, emphysema, and COPD, are at increased risk for presentation with severe debility due to respiratory arrest from flexeril intake.
Genitourinary side-effects
- Flexeril can induce difficulty with emptying the bladder and consequent retention of urine in the bladder, which can contribute to increased risk for urinary tract infections (UTIs). Individuals with history of prostate enlargement and spinal injury can present with difficulty emptying bladder and urinary retention. Flexeril use in such individuals can add up to the risk for urinary retention and so, could be avoided for a safer alternative or used cautiously with close watch for symptoms of urinary retention.
Visual side-effects
- Flexeril use can result in difficulty with the flow of fluid in the eye that helps to maintain the eye pressure. This blockage in the flow of fluid in eye can contribute to increased pressure in the eye. Poor control of eye pressure can lead to retinal damage and blurred vision. Individuals with history of glaucoma (elevated eye pressure) must be aware of this side-effect of flexeril use, report any headaches, eye pain, and vision disturbances appropriately. Individuals taking flexeril must observe compliance with periodical vision exam for early detection of any retinal damage and blurring of vision.
- Flexeril use also can lead to reduced tear production with consequent drying and irritation of eyes.
