Used to reduce the muscle tone and spasms associated with chronic condition. The
drug acts to reduce spasticity by blocking the alpha-2 receptor sites on the nerves
responsible for muscle function, thus reducing the level of spasticity.
Zanaflex is taken orally as a tablet. Medication can be increased in steps until
the desired effect is achieved or side effects become a problem.
There have been several studies of the drug that showed it beneficial as a treatment
for spasticity when compared to placebo. Other studies have shown tizanidine to be
as effective as other spasticity drugs.
The NICE Guideline states that tizanidine should only be given if treatment with
baclofen or gabapentin is unsuccessful or side effects are unmanageable.
Note
The antibiotic ciprofloxacin (brand names Ciproxin, Ciprofloxacin etc.) greatly increases
the concentrations of tizanidine (Sirdalud, Zanaflex) in blood. Concomitant use of
ciprofloxacin and tizanidine results in severe and prolonged decrease in blood pressure
and greatly enhances central nervous system effects. This previously unrecognised
interaction can become very dangerous.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of tizanidine in treatment of spasticity
caused by multiple sclerosis - Neurology 1994;44(11 Suppl 9):S70-78. PubMed abstract
Hoogstraten MC, et al. Tizanidine versus baclofen in the treatment of spasticity
in multiple sclerosis people - Acta Neurologica Scandinavica 1988;77(3):224-230.
-PubMed abstract
Wagstaff AJ, Bryson HM. Tizanidine. A review of its pharmacology, clinical efficacy
and tolerability in the management of spasticity associated with cerebral and spinal
disorders. Drugs 1997;53(3):435-452. -PubMed abstract
Serious Side effects may occur such as:
Drowsiness
Dryness of Mouth
Weakness
Dizziness
Low blood pressure
Slowing of heart rate.
Liver function tests should be checked during the first months of treatment.
