From the FDA Drug Label
Adverse reactions reported coincident with the administration of methocarbamol include: ... Cardiovascular system: ... hypotension, ... Overdose of methocarbamol ... includes the following symptoms: ... hypotension, ...
Hypotension is listed as an adverse reaction and a symptom of overdose of methocarbamol.
- Methocarbamol may lower blood pressure, as evidenced by reports of hypotension. This is supported by the drug labels 1 and 1.
From the Research
Robaxin (methocarbamol) does not typically lower blood pressure as its primary effect, and it is not designed to affect blood pressure. It is a muscle relaxant that works by reducing nerve impulses that cause pain and muscle spasms. Some patients might experience a slight decrease in blood pressure as a side effect, particularly when standing up quickly (orthostatic hypotension), but this is not consistent or reliable enough to be considered a blood pressure-lowering medication. If you're taking Robaxin and notice changes in your blood pressure, you should consult your healthcare provider, as this could be an individual reaction. For treating high blood pressure specifically, medications designed for that purpose (such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or diuretics) would be more appropriate and effective, as shown in studies such as 2 which compared the effectiveness of different classes of antihypertensive drugs. These medications are specifically formulated to target the mechanisms that control blood pressure, unlike Robaxin which primarily affects skeletal muscle function. Key points to consider when treating high blood pressure include:
- The use of medications that are specifically designed to lower blood pressure, such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or diuretics
- The importance of monitoring blood pressure regularly and adjusting treatment as needed
- The potential for individual reactions to medications, and the need to consult a healthcare provider if changes in blood pressure are noticed
- The effectiveness of different classes of antihypertensive drugs, as shown in studies such as 2 and 3.