From the Guidelines
For muscle spasms from MDMA, benzodiazepines like diazepam (5-10mg) may be prescribed in more severe cases, as they act as muscle relaxants and can alleviate both physical tension and anxiety, as supported by studies such as 1 and 1. When considering treatment options for muscle spasms caused by MDMA, it's essential to prioritize approaches that address both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition.
- Magnesium supplements, such as magnesium glycinate or magnesium citrate at doses of 200-400mg, can help relax muscles and reduce spasms, acting as a natural muscle relaxant by regulating calcium channels in muscle tissue.
- Over-the-counter options include NSAIDs like ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours) to reduce inflammation and pain associated with muscle tension, as discussed in 1.
- Staying hydrated is crucial, as dehydration can worsen muscle spasms, and this is a simple yet effective measure to prevent exacerbation of symptoms. These treatments work because MDMA increases muscle tension through serotonin release and jaw clenching; while benzodiazepines enhance GABA activity, promoting muscle relaxation, as noted in studies like 1 and 1. If spasms are severe or persistent, medical attention should be sought promptly as they could indicate more serious issues like hyperthermia or serotonin syndrome, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and professional intervention when necessary.
From the FDA Drug Label
Baclofen tablets are useful for the alleviation of signs and symptoms of spasticity resulting from multiple sclerosis, particularly for the relief of flexor spasms and concomitant pain, clonus, and muscular rigidity. Diazepam is a useful adjunct for the relief of skeletal muscle spasm due to reflex spasm to local pathology (such as inflammation of the muscles or joints, or secondary to trauma), spasticity caused by upper motor neuron disorders (such as cerebral palsy and paraplegia), athetosis, and stiff-man syndrome
Muscle Spasm Treatment:
- Baclofen may not be effective for muscle spasms from MDMA as it is primarily used for spasticity resulting from multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries/diseases 2.
- Diazepam may be useful as an adjunct for the relief of skeletal muscle spasm, but its effectiveness for muscle spasms from MDMA is not directly stated in the label 3. However, given the information available, Diazepam might be considered for relief of muscle spasms, but with caution and careful assessment of its usefulness for the individual patient.
From the Research
Medications for Muscle Spasms from MDMA
There are no specific medications mentioned in the provided studies that can help with muscle spasms from MDMA.
Related Information
- The studies focus on the effects of MDMA, its interactions with other substances, and its neurotoxicity 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
- They discuss the potential harm of MDMA use, including its impact on serotonergic neurons, memory, and mood 4, 7, 8.
- However, none of the studies provide information on medications that can help with muscle spasms specifically caused by MDMA.
Interactions with Other Substances
- Some studies mention the interactions between MDMA and other substances, including pharmaceuticals and drugs of abuse 5, 6.
- These interactions can lead to a higher risk of acute and life-threatening MDMA toxicity 5.
- However, there is no mention of medications that can help with muscle spasms from MDMA in these studies.