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If your doctor has prescribed the muscle relaxant Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride) for you, and you are uncertain about what it is exactly or how you should take it, or if you merely wish to learn something about Zanaflex medication, this information may be helpful for you.

You can purchase Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride) in either tablet or capsule form. The tablet form of this drug comes in 2 and 4 milligram strengths. The tablet form of Zanaflex comes in two varieties: a 2mg blue tablet and a 4mg white tablet. Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride) also comes in capsules. The 2 milligram capsules are blue in color, while the 4 milligram capsules are white and blue. Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride) can also be found in a 6mg dose of light blue capsules. Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride) treats spasticity in the short term. Spasticity is triggered by stiffness and rigidity in body muscles, and results in increasingly laborious effort in the daily movements. These prescription drugs work in the body by ensuring that unnecessary firing of nerve cells which command muscle movement are blocked.

The best way to take Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride) is to take 4mg every six to eight hours, but don’t take more than three doses in any 24-hour period. To receive the best benefits from Zanaflex, slowly raise the dosage of this muscle relaxant in two to four milligram increments over a period of time as instructed by your doctor. 36 milligrams is the maximum daily dose of Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride). If you have kidney problems, your doctor will prescribe a lower dose of Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride) for you.

If Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride) is taken at the same time as oral contraceptives, elimination of Zanaflex from the body may take longer than normal. If you take Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride) with alcohol or any other substance that depresses the central nervous system, it is very likely that adverse effects will occur.

Low blood pressure can be a side effect of Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride). Some liver injuries have been reported by users of Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride). You may experience several side effects when taking Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride), which can include  drowsiness, dry mouth, low blood pressure, heartburn, sleepiness, anxiety, increased sweating, back pain, blurred vision, strange speech patterns, and abnormal liver functions.

Take with food or milk if your stomach becomes upset. When using Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride), take extra care operating heavy machinery, including an automobile, because Zanaflex can induce drowsiness. Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride) should be stored in a place away from sunlight, humidity, heat, and children. Sunlight can reduce the effectiveness of Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride). If you forget a dose of medication, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time of your next dose. If so, skip your missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. Don’t ever take two doses of Zanaflex (Tizanidine Hydrochloride). Contact your doctor right away if you experience blurred vision, more muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness.