Does Chlorzoxazone affect renal function?

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Last updated: April 14, 2025 • View editorial policy

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From the FDA Drug Label

There is no evidence that the drug will cause renal damage. Rarely, a patient may note discoloration of the urine resulting from a phenolic metabolite of chlorzoxazone. This finding is of no known clinical significance.

  • No renal damage is expected from Chlorzoxazone, according to the drug label 1.
  • Urine discoloration may occur, but it is of no known clinical significance.
  • Based on the information provided, Chlorzoxazone is not expected to affect kidneys in a clinically significant way.

From the Research

Chlorzoxazone is not known to cause significant kidney damage in most patients with normal renal function, but patients with pre-existing kidney disease should use it with caution due to the potential accumulation of the drug's metabolites in the kidneys. This muscle relaxant is primarily metabolized by the liver and excreted through the kidneys 2. The elimination of chlorzoxazone and its metabolites can be affected by kidney function, and impaired kidney function may lead to increased levels of the drug in the body 3.

Key Considerations

  • Patients with pre-existing kidney disease should use chlorzoxazone with caution and under medical supervision.
  • The drug's metabolites are eliminated through the kidneys, and impaired kidney function could potentially lead to accumulation of the drug.
  • Side effects related to kidney function are rare but may include changes in urine color or volume.
  • If you have kidney disease, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or monitor your kidney function while taking this medication.

Monitoring and Precautions

  • It is essential to stay well-hydrated while taking chlorzoxazone and to report any unusual symptoms such as changes in urination patterns, swelling, or unexplained weight gain to your healthcare provider 4, 5.
  • These precautions help ensure the medication can be used safely without compromising kidney health.
  • The use of serum creatinine as a marker of kidney function has limitations, and alternative biomarkers may be considered in certain cases 4, 5.

Conclusion is not allowed, so the answer will be ended here.

References

3
Research

Effects of acute renal failure on the pharmacokinetics of chlorzoxazone in rats.

Drug metabolism and disposition: the biological fate of chemicals, 2003

5
Research

Creatinine: From physiology to clinical application.

European journal of internal medicine, 2020

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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