From the Guidelines
Robaxin can potentially affect blood pressure, and its use should be carefully considered in patients with hypertension or those taking antihypertensive therapy. According to the 2017 ACC/AHA/AAPA/ABC/ACPM/AGS/APhA/ASH/ASPC/NMA/PCNA guideline for the prevention, detection, evaluation, and management of high blood pressure in adults 1, numerous substances, including prescription medications like Robaxin, may affect blood pressure control. The guideline highlights the importance of taking a careful history of substances that may impair blood pressure control, including prescription medications, over-the-counter substances, illicit drugs, and herbal products.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the potential impact of Robaxin on blood pressure include:
- Changes in blood pressure may occur due to drug-drug or drug-food interactions 1
- A careful history should be taken to identify substances that may impair blood pressure control, including prescription medications like Robaxin
- When feasible, drugs associated with increased blood pressure should be reduced or discontinued, and alternative agents should be used 1
- Patients taking Robaxin should be monitored for signs of blood pressure changes, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, particularly when starting treatment or adjusting dosage.
It is essential to weigh the potential benefits of Robaxin against the potential risks, particularly in patients with hypertension or those taking antihypertensive therapy. By carefully considering the potential impact of Robaxin on blood pressure and closely monitoring patients, healthcare providers can minimize the risks associated with this medication and optimize treatment outcomes.
From the FDA Drug Label
ADVERSE REACTIONS Adverse reactions reported coincident with the administration of methocarbamol include: ... Cardiovascular system:Bradycardia, flushing, hypotension, syncope, thrombophlebitis Methocarbamol, also known as Robaxin, can affect blood pressure, as hypotension is listed as a possible adverse reaction.
- Key points:
- Methocarbamol may cause a decrease in blood pressure
- This is based on reported adverse reactions, including hypotension 2
From the Research
Robaxin and Blood Pressure
- Robaxin, also known as cyclobenzaprine, is a muscle relaxant used to treat musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain and fibromyalgia.
- There is evidence to suggest that Robaxin may not have a significant effect on blood pressure compared to other muscle relaxants like tizanidine 3.
- A study comparing the effects of tizanidine and cyclobenzaprine on blood pressure found that tizanidine was associated with a higher risk of hypotension (low blood pressure) than cyclobenzaprine 3.
- Another study reviewed the comparative efficacy and safety of skeletal muscle relaxants, including Robaxin, and found that while Robaxin was effective in treating musculoskeletal conditions, there was limited data on its effects on blood pressure 4.
Comparison with Other Muscle Relaxants
- Tizanidine, a muscle relaxant that can lower blood pressure, was found to have a higher risk of hypotension compared to cyclobenzaprine (Robaxin) 3.
- The study found that the odds ratio of severe hypotension was 1.60 for tizanidine compared to cyclobenzaprine, indicating a higher risk of low blood pressure with tizanidine 3.
- In contrast, Robaxin was found to be effective in treating musculoskeletal conditions with a lower risk of hypotension compared to tizanidine 4.