TREATMENT DATABASE

Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) is a muscle relaxant used to treat pain and skeletal muscle spasms. It is closely related to tricyclic antidepressants such as Elavil and Tofranil. The drug works by blocking nervous system impulses from the spinal cord to skeletal muscle. Researchers are not entirely sure how Flexeril specifically blocks pain impulses. Some claim that the drug's tricyclic properties (blocking the uptake of serotonin and norepinephrine) exert direct analgesic effects. Other studies seem to indicate that the inhibition of serotonergic pathways alone are responsible for a decreased firing of motor neurons.

USES IN ME/CFS: Flexeril is a commonly prescribed medication that can be extremely beneficial in treating the fibromyalgia component of ME/CFS. Because it is sedating, it is also used to treat insomnia.

Treatment rating for Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine)