Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking orphenadrine as follows:
- Orphenadrine has some potential for addiction and abuse, especially after prolonged use and/or in individuals with history of substance/drug abuse. This makes orphenadrine a risky drug and so, must be avoided for a safer alternative in individuals with history of drug abuse. Individuals who are active drug abusers or sober currently with history of drug abuse must discuss with their physician regarding this issue and their safety with orphenadrine intake. Keep a count on your pills, when taking this medication, to help prevent abuse by others. Do not share this medication with any friends and family.
- Due to the addiction potential, orphenadrine is usually prescribed for a limited duration of time. If you are taking this medication for longer periods of time, set enough reminders to help yourself pick the refill before you run out on the medication. Also, you can avoid the unpleasant withdrawal response from sudden discontinuation of medication due to running out on the medication. Follow closely on the expiration date of the medication. If using a pillbox, check the expiration date on the medication container every time you fill the pillbox.
- Do not pull off from taking this medication suddenly or without notifying your physician. Individuals on sudden withdrawal from orphenadrine, especially after prolonged use or use in high doses, can present with mild unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, such as, listlessness, lack of energy, appetite changes, mood changes, rebound muscle stiffness, muscle spasms, runny nose, tearing of eyes, excessive nausea & salivation, stomach cramps, and sweating. Discontinuation on orphenadrine use must be slow and gradual, using tapering doses, and only on your physician recommendation.
