Does tizanidine (Zanaflex) have anticholinergic properties?

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Last updated: May 12, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Tizanidine does not have significant anticholinergic properties based on the provided evidence. The study 1 discusses cyclobenzaprine, a different medication, and its potential to cause adverse anticholinergic effects, but it does not mention tizanidine.

Key Points to Consider

  • The provided study 1 focuses on cyclobenzaprine, which has peripheral and central anticholinergic activity, but it does not provide information on tizanidine's anticholinergic properties.
  • Tizanidine is primarily an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist used to treat muscle spasticity, and its mechanism of action does not suggest significant anticholinergic effects.
  • However, it is essential to consider the potential for anticholinergic effects when prescribing any medication, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly or those with certain medical conditions.

Clinical Implications

  • When prescribing tizanidine, clinicians should be aware of its potential side effects, but anticholinergic properties are not a primary concern based on the available evidence.
  • Patients should be monitored for any adverse effects, and the medication should be used at the recommended doses to minimize the risk of toxicity.
  • The lack of information on tizanidine's anticholinergic properties in the provided study 1 suggests that further research may be necessary to fully understand its effects.

From the FDA Drug Label

Tizanidine is an agonist at α2-adrenergic receptor sites and presumably reduces spasticity by increasing presynaptic inhibition of motor neurons. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

Tizanidine's Anticholinergic Properties

  • The provided studies do not directly address whether tizanidine has anticholinergic properties 2, 3, 4, 5.
  • However, some studies mention side effects of tizanidine, such as dry mouth (xerostomia) 2, 5, which can be related to anticholinergic activity.
  • A study on drugs with anticholinergic properties discusses the adverse effects of anticholinergic agents, including dry mouth, but does not specifically mention tizanidine 6.
  • There is no clear evidence in the provided studies to confirm whether tizanidine has anticholinergic properties or not 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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