Tizanidine is available under the brand name Zanaflex and as a generic medication. It is a muscle relaxant used to treat spasticity associated with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, or stroke [1].
How does tizanidine work?
Tizanidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. It works by blocking the nerve impulses that are sent to the brain, which can cause spasticity [1].
What are the common side effects of tizanidine?
Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, weakness, and fatigue [1].
How long does tizanidine stay in your system?
The half-life of tizanidine is approximately 2.5 hours. This means that it typically takes about 15 hours for the drug to be eliminated from the body [1].
Can tizanidine be taken with food?
Tizanidine can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may increase the absorption of the drug [1].
What is the difference between tizanidine and other muscle relaxants?
Tizanidine is generally considered to be less sedating than some other muscle relaxants, such as cyclobenzaprine. It is also thought to be more effective at treating spasticity [2]. However, individual responses to medications can vary.
When does the patent for tizanidine expire?
Information regarding specific patent expiry dates for tizanidine brand names is best found through specialized patent databases. DrugPatentWatch.com is a resource that tracks drug patents and their expiry [3].
Who manufactures tizanidine?
Tizanidine is manufactured by several pharmaceutical companies, both for the brand name and generic versions. Specific manufacturers can vary by region and product availability.
Sources:
[1] Tizanidine. (n.d.). National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a694010.html
[2] American Academy of Neurology. (n.d.). Tizanidine. https://www.aan.com/tools-resources/patient-resources/tizanidine
[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). https://drugpatentwatch.com/