From the Guidelines
Yes, cyclobenzaprine can cause constipation as a side effect, due to its anticholinergic properties that reduce intestinal motility by blocking certain neurotransmitters in the gut. This muscle relaxant, commonly prescribed for muscle spasms and pain, affects the central nervous system and can slow down the movement of the digestive tract. Constipation occurs in patients taking cyclobenzaprine, as stated in the study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings in 2021 1. If you're taking cyclobenzaprine and experience constipation, you can manage this side effect by:
- Increasing your water intake
- Consuming more fiber-rich foods
- Staying physically active as your condition allows
- Using over-the-counter stool softeners if the constipation persists It's essential to note that constipation can be a significant issue, and its management is crucial to prevent complications. According to the American Gastroenterological Association Institute guideline on the medical management of opioid-induced constipation published in 2019 1, and the American Gastroenterological Association-American College of Gastroenterology clinical practice guideline on the pharmacological management of chronic idiopathic constipation published in 2023 1, the management of constipation should be tailored to the individual patient's needs. If constipation becomes severe or is accompanied by abdominal pain or bloating, consult your healthcare provider, as they may adjust your dosage or recommend an alternative medication. Additionally, guidelines from the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network published in 2013 1 suggest that prophylactic bowel regimens and stimulant laxatives may be effective in managing constipation. However, the most recent and highest-quality study, published in 2023 1, should be prioritized when making a definitive recommendation.
From the FDA Drug Label
Adverse reactions which were reported in 1% to 3% of the patients were: abdominal pain, acid regurgitation, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, nausea, irritability, mental acuity decreased, nervousness, upper respiratory infection, and pharyngitis Among the less frequent adverse reactions, there was no appreciable difference in incidence in controlled clinical studies or in the surveillance program Adverse reactions which were reported in 1% to 3% of the patients were: fatigue/tiredness, asthenia, nausea, constipation, dyspepsia, unpleasant taste, blurred vision, headache, nervousness, and confusion
Constipation is listed as an adverse reaction that was reported in 1% to 3% of patients taking cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride tablets.
- The key points are:
- Constipation is a possible side effect of cyclobenzaprine
- The incidence of constipation is between 1% and 3% 2
From the Research
Cyclobenzaprine and Constipation
- Cyclobenzaprine is a tricyclic pharmacologic agent with muscle relaxant properties, and its side effects are largely anticholinergic in nature 3.
- Anticholinergic side effects can include constipation, among other symptoms.
- However, none of the provided studies directly investigate the relationship between cyclobenzaprine and constipation.
- Studies on constipation in elderly populations suggest that it is a common complaint, and laxatives are often used to treat it 4, 5, 6.
- The use of laxatives can have potential side effects and drug interactions, and increases in physical activity, fluid intake, and dietary fiber may be sufficient to control constipation 6.
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to confirm whether cyclobenzaprine causes constipation, but its anticholinergic properties suggest it may be a potential side effect 3.