From the FDA Drug Label
ADVERSE REACTIONS Adverse reactions reported coincident with the administration of methocarbamol include: ... Cardiovascular system: ... hypotension ... OVERDOSAGE ... Overdose of methocarbamol ... includes the following symptoms: ... hypotension ...
Yes, Robaxin (methocarbamol) can cause hypotension 1 1.
From the Research
Yes, Robaxin (methocarbamol) can cause hypotension as a side effect, particularly when administered intravenously or at high doses. This muscle relaxant works by depressing the central nervous system and may affect blood pressure regulation. Hypotension is more likely to occur with rapid IV administration, where the recommended rate should not exceed 300 mg per minute. Patients with cardiovascular conditions, the elderly, or those taking other medications that lower blood pressure are at higher risk for this side effect. The oral form of methocarbamol typically has a lower risk of causing significant hypotension compared to the injectable form. If a patient experiences dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting while taking Robaxin, they should be advised to sit or lie down and contact their healthcare provider. These symptoms may indicate a drop in blood pressure. Healthcare providers should monitor blood pressure in patients receiving high doses or IV administration of methocarbamol, especially during initial treatment.
Key Considerations
- The risk of hypotension is higher with intravenous administration of methocarbamol, as noted in various studies 2, 3.
- Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or those taking other medications that can lower blood pressure are at increased risk of experiencing hypotension while taking Robaxin 4, 5.
- Monitoring blood pressure is crucial, especially during the initial treatment phase or when administering high doses of methocarbamol 3.
Management and Prevention
- Healthcare providers should be cautious when prescribing Robaxin to patients at risk of hypotension and monitor their blood pressure closely.
- Patients should be advised to report any symptoms of hypotension, such as dizziness or lightheadedness, to their healthcare provider promptly.
- The oral form of methocarbamol is generally safer in terms of hypotension risk compared to the injectable form, but caution is still necessary, especially in vulnerable populations 2.
Given the potential for hypotension, healthcare providers should prioritize monitoring and patient education to mitigate this risk, especially in patients receiving intravenous methocarbamol or those with factors that increase their susceptibility to hypotension 3.