From the FDA Drug Label
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Methocarbamol, 500 mg — Adults: Initial dosage: 3 tablets q.i.d. Maintenance dosage: 2 tablets q.i.d. Methocarbamol, 750 mg — Adults: Initial dosage: 2 tablets q.i.d. Maintenance dosage: 1 tablet q.4h. or 2 tablets t.i.d. Six grams a day are recommended for the first 48 to 72 hours of treatment. (For severe conditions 8 grams a day may be administered). Thereafter, the dosage can usually be reduced to approximately 4 grams a day. The recommended dose and frequency of Robaxin (methocarbamol) are:
- Initial dosage:
- 500 mg: 3 tablets q.i.d. (four times a day)
- 750 mg: 2 tablets q.i.d. (four times a day)
- Maintenance dosage:
- 500 mg: 2 tablets q.i.d. (four times a day)
- 750 mg: 1 tablet q.4h. (every 4 hours) or 2 tablets t.i.d. (three times a day) The total daily dose is recommended to be 6 grams for the first 48 to 72 hours of treatment, and can be reduced to approximately 4 grams per day thereafter 1.
From the Research
Robaxin (methocarbamol) should be prescribed at a dose of 1500 mg four times daily for adults with muscle spasms, with a maximum recommended daily dose of 8000 mg, as this dosing regimen is associated with effective relief of muscle spasms while minimizing the risk of adverse effects 2. The treatment usually begins with this higher dose for the first 48-72 hours, after which it can often be reduced to 750 mg every 4 hours or 1000 mg four times daily for maintenance therapy. Key considerations for prescribing Robaxin include:
- For elderly patients or those with liver or kidney issues, lower doses may be appropriate to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
- Robaxin works as a central muscle relaxant by depressing the central nervous system, though its exact mechanism isn't fully understood.
- Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision, so patients should avoid driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
- Taking Robaxin with food can help reduce stomach upset.
- Patients should complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve, and should not abruptly stop taking the medication without consulting their healthcare provider.
- If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it's almost time for the next dose. It's also important to note that concurrent use of opioids, benzodiazepines, and muscle relaxants, such as Robaxin, can increase the risk of emergency department visits, as shown in a study published in the International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy 2.