From the Guidelines
Robaxin, also known as methocarbamol, is a centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant and sedative that is used to treat muscle pain and discomfort caused by muscle injuries or spasms. According to the most recent study 1, methocarbamol is considered a less-sedating muscle relaxant option for managing musculoskeletal or inflammatory pain. The precise mechanism of action of methocarbamol is unclear, but it is known to depress the central nervous system and has no direct effect on skeletal muscle 1.
Key Points to Consider
- Methocarbamol can cause adverse effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and cardiovascular effects including bradycardia and hypotension 1
- The medication is typically used in combination with rest, physical therapy, and other non-pharmacological treatments to provide relief from acute musculoskeletal conditions
- Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications they're taking, as methocarbamol may interact with alcohol, sedatives, and certain other drugs
- Methocarbamol elimination is significantly impaired in certain patients, and dosage adjustments may be necessary 1
Clinical Considerations
- Methocarbamol is preferred over nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in patients with established cardiovascular disease (ESCVD) due to the cardiovascular toxicity and renal toxicity associated with NSAIDs 1
- The medication can be used in conjunction with other non-pharmacological modalities such as heat or massage therapy to promptly control pain 1
- Patients receiving methocarbamol should be monitored for adverse effects and dosage adjustments should be made as necessary to minimize risks and optimize benefits.
From the FDA Drug Label
Methocarbamol Tablets, USP, 500 mg and 750 mg, a carbamate derivative of guaifenesin, is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant with sedative and musculoskeletal relaxant properties. Methocarbamol is indicated as an adjunct to rest, physical therapy, and other measures for the relief of discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions.
Robaxin (Methocarbamol) is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant with sedative and musculoskeletal relaxant properties, used to relieve discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions 2 2.
From the Research
What is Robaxin (Methocarbamol)?
- Methocarbamol, also known as Robaxin, is a muscle relaxant used to treat muscle spasms and musculoskeletal pain 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
- It is a non-benzodiazepine muscle relaxant that works by blocking nerve impulses (or pain sensations) that are sent to the brain 4
- Methocarbamol is used to treat a variety of conditions, including acute low back pain, muscle spasms, and musculoskeletal pain 5, 7
Mechanism of Action
- The exact mechanism of action of methocarbamol is not fully understood, but it is thought to work by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates muscle contractions 4
- Methocarbamol may also have a sedative effect, which can help to relieve anxiety and promote relaxation 3, 7
Efficacy and Safety
- Studies have shown that methocarbamol is effective in treating acute low back pain and musculoskeletal pain 5, 7
- Methocarbamol has been shown to be well-tolerated, with mild side effects such as drowsiness, weakness, and excessive perspiration reported in some patients 3, 5, 7
- However, rare but serious side effects, such as necrosis of the soft tissue, can occur with intramuscular injection of methocarbamol 6