Flexeril High: Why This Muscle Relaxer is Creating Dependency

Flexeril, known generically as cyclobenzaprine, is one of the most widely prescribed muscle relaxants, with nearly 25 million prescriptions dispensed annually. Commonly used to treat back pain and muscle spasms, Flexeril is often perceived as less addictive compared to other painkillers. However, despite its therapeutic benefits, chasing the Flexeril high has garnered attention for its potential to be misused and abused, leading to dependency and severe health risks.

In this blog, we will explore the various aspects of Flexeril use and abuse, including its medical uses, the potential for dependency, the phenomenon of the Flexeril high, and the risks associated with long-term misuse.

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Medical Use and Potential for Abuse of Flexeril

The DEA reports that nearly 25 million prescriptions for cyclobenzaprine, the active ingredient in Flexeril, are issued annually. Commonly prescribed as a muscle relaxant for back pain, Flexeril is often considered less addictive than other painkillers.

Cyclobenzaprine, the technical name of the active compound, is available in various forms, including Flexeril 5 mg and 10 mg tablets. Additionally, Fexmid is a brand-name tablet available in a 7.5 mg dose. Amrix is an extended-release capsule that can be taken daily in doses ranging from 15 to 30 mg.

Flexeril is also used to treat disorders such as muscular dystrophy by controlling spasms and preventing muscle damage. Unlike drugs that inhibit pain in the nerves controlling the muscles, cyclobenzaprine specifically targets and relieves muscle spasms originating in the muscle itself.

When patients experience muscle spasms due to injury, cyclobenzaprine alleviates pain during the first 14 days. Its effectiveness peaked within the initial days but showed no significant benefits after two weeks. Consequently, there is no justification for long-term use of Flexeril.

The DEA highlights that Flexeril shares similarities with tricyclic antidepressants, which are known to be abused. The potential for a Flexeril high increases the risk of abuse, especially given its widespread prescription. This extensive availability contributes to the growing concern about Flexeril abuse and dependency.

The Flexeril High

Flexeril’s primary effect is muscle relaxation, effectively alleviating muscular pain from injuries by controlling spasms. This relaxing effect can be perceived as a Flexeril high. The high is typically achieved when the medication is abused or when taken for the first time. Higher or tampered doses increase cyclobenzaprine levels, producing a more pronounced euphoric effect.

A Flexeril high can alter the state of mind, making the user feel a sense of floating. However, abusing Flexeril poses severe health risks, including cardiac arrest, dangerous drops in blood pressure, seizures, and central nervous system depression. One common effect is drowsiness, which is typically the most intense aspect of a Flexeril high. The potential dangers of abusing Flexeril far outweigh any temporary rewards.

Proper Flexeril Dosage

Given the potential for abuse, it is crucial to adhere to the proper dosage of Flexeril. Avoid combining cyclobenzaprine with alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, as these interactions can cause life-threatening side effects. You and your doctor should determine the appropriate dosage for your specific situation.

Generally, physicians follow these guidelines from the Mayo Clinic:

• Adults and children 15 years and older: Flexeril 10 mg is taken three times daily, with a maximum of six 10 mg daily doses.
• Initial dosing: Some patients may start with Flexeril 5 mg doses three times daily to test their body’s reaction to the drug.
• Specific dosages: The doctor should determine this for patients with certain health conditions that may cause complications (e.g., those taking MAO inhibitors, having liver problems, taking other CNS depressants such as Valium, etc.).

Flexeril Side Effects

Flexeril can cause several side effects, some of which can be severe. Common side effects include drowsiness, nausea, dry mouth, and dizziness. The presence of antihistamines in Flexeril can contribute to these effects. It is crucial to avoid activities requiring alertness until you know how Flexeril affects you, as drowsiness can vary significantly between individuals.

Severe Nervous System and Mental Effects:

• Loss of Muscle Tone: This can impair movement and coordination.
• Disorientation: Confusion and difficulty understanding your surroundings.
• Anxiety and Psychosis: In rare cases, Flexeril can cause severe mental health issues, including anxiety and psychotic episodes.

Risk of Tolerance and Dependency:

• Tolerance: Patients may require higher doses over time to achieve the same effects, leading to potential dependency.
• Dependency: The brain can become accustomed to the presence of cyclobenzaprine, leading to a reliance on the drug to function normally. This risk is heightened with recreational use, increasing the likelihood of developing a dependency and addiction.

Potential for Liver Damage:

• Liver Inflammation and Swelling: Chronic use or abuse of Flexeril can cause the liver to become inflamed and swollen.
• Jaundice and Bile Blockage: Severe liver damage can result in jaundice or bile blockage from the liver into the intestines.
• Permanent Damage: Similar to severe alcohol abuse, long-term Flexeril abuse can cause permanent and potentially life-threatening damage to the liver and other vital organs.

Neurotransmitter Malfunction:

Flexeril abuse can disrupt normal brain function, leading to:

• Confusion: Impaired cognitive function and clarity of thought.
• Hallucinations: Sensory experiences without external stimuli.
• Vision Problems: Difficulty seeing correctly.
• Impaired Thinking: Challenges in processing information and making decisions.
• Unusual Thoughts and Fears: Irrational thoughts and heightened anxiety.

Other Serious Symptoms:

• Difficulty Breathing: Respiratory issues that can be life-threatening.
• Swelling: Swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat, which can obstruct breathing and require immediate medical attention.

Given these potential side effects, it is essential to use Flexeril strictly as prescribed and under the guidance of a healthcare professional to minimize risks and ensure safe use. Never mix Flexeril with severe alcohol abuse.

What is the Flexeril High Like?

For those curious about the appeal of a Flexeril high, it’s important to note that it isn’t as euphoric as other drugs. Instead, it produces a long-lasting feeling of relaxation and calmness, which some substance abusers find appealing. The Flexeril high intensity generally scales with the dosage and the combination of other drugs taken simultaneously.

One user shared their experience with Flexeril:

My Flexeril High Experience

I remember the first time I took Flexeril. It was prescribed for back pain and muscle spasms, and it worked remarkably well. One day, I decided to see if taking a little more than my prescribed dose would enhance its effects. I planned this for a few days when I would be home alone to avoid complications.

When I initially took a 10 mg dose, I experienced a “hangover” effect the next day. Knowing this could happen again, I prepared myself. In the morning, I took one 10 mg tablet of Flexeril and waited for the effects to kick in, which usually took 45 minutes to an hour. At first, I felt mild sedation; my mind and body relaxed, and I felt really good.

An hour later, I took a second dose. By about two and a half hours in, the effects intensified. I felt extreme sedation and relaxation, to the point where even moving seemed difficult. Despite feeling tired, I resisted sleep to continue enjoying the high. About three hours into the experience, I started having visual hallucinations, seeing dark outlines and bright flashes of light that disappeared quickly.

Eventually, I couldn’t fight off sleep and slept for seven hours straight. When a friend woke me up, I was still in a daze and didn’t take any more of the drug. Later, I drank some alcohol, which led to a bizarre and frightening experience. I was sitting on the sofa, and suddenly, I couldn’t move my legs. They didn’t hurt, but it felt like the connection between my legs and my brain had been severed. My friend helped me lie down, and I fell asleep again, waking up groggy but able to move my legs.

Getting high on Flexeril felt like being on vacation; I had never experienced such profound relaxation. However, it’s not something I would do frequently. I can easily see how someone might become addicted to Flexeril.

 

Is Flexeril a Narcotic?

Given the symptoms of a cyclobenzaprine high, you might wonder, “Is Flexeril an opioid, or is cyclobenzaprine a different type of muscle relaxer?” This is a common question. Many people assume Flexeril is a narcotic, similar to painkillers like OxyContin, Fentanyl, or Vicodin, based on its effects. However, cyclobenzaprine belongs to a different class of chemicals known as muscle relaxants. Unlike prescription painkillers that activate opioid receptors, Flexeril works by blocking certain nerve impulses sent to the brain. Although cyclobenzaprine is not an opioid, it still has the potential for abuse.

Is There a Risk of Flexeril Addiction?

When taken as prescribed for up to 14 days, the risk of Flexeril addiction is minimal. However, prolonged or abusive use can easily lead to addiction. While the DEA does not classify Flexeril as a controlled substance, it does have abuse potential and can cause withdrawal symptoms. Consequently, the DEA does not prioritize cyclobenzaprine abuse as a high-risk concern.

Addiction to Flexeril is less common because the high is not as rewarding compared to more potent drugs. People with a substance use disorder often prefer more potent substances over Flexeril. Nonetheless, dependency can develop, marked by withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, headaches, fatigue, and general malaise when the medication is stopped. Psychological dependence can also occur due to the drug’s relaxing effects.

The risk of addiction increases significantly when Flexeril is abused, especially when combined with alcohol, opioids, or other drugs. Cyclobenzaprine can enhance the effects of these substances, leading to a higher risk of developing addictions to other drugs as well.

How Do People Abuse Flexeril?

Can Flexeril make you high? While the high isn’t as intense as other prescription painkillers, it can still alter the state of mind. Abuse of Flexeril often leads to sedation and relaxation, with a potential euphoric high.

Flexeril is not a narcotic, but it can be dangerous when abused or mixed with other substances. The drug can be dissolved in alcohol or crushed and snorted, intensifying the high.

Although cyclobenzaprine is not widely abused, it does have high potential. When used illicitly, it goes by street names like “cyclone” or “mellow yellow.” Recreational doses range from 20-80 mg, compared to the 5-10 mg prescribed doses.

The primary effects of recreational use include drowsiness and a sense of relaxation. The Flexeril high can also produce a pleasurable muscle relaxation and floating feeling. The DEA notes that most people abusing Flexeril mix it with other CNS depressants like:

• Alcohol
• Barbiturates
• Benzodiazepines
• Opioid painkillers

Risks of Abusing Flexeril

According to the DEA, Flexeril itself poses minimal risk when used as prescribed. The FDA has not listed cyclobenzaprine as a controlled substance. However, recreational abuse of Flexeril increases the risk significantly. Overuse can lead to dangerous health issues, including fluctuations in body temperature, irregular heartbeat, and convulsions.

Abusing Flexeril can lead to physical dependency, marked by the need to use cyclobenzaprine regularly to function. This dependency can spiral into addiction, with long-term health effects and life disruptions.

The dangers of Flexeril abuse are heightened when mixed with other substances, making it addictive and potentially deadly. One hazardous risk is Serotonin Syndrome, which can occur when Flexeril is combined with MAO inhibitors. This life-threatening condition results from excessive serotonin levels in the body, causing changes in blood pressure, body temperature, and behavior.

Additionally, allergic reactions to Flexeril can be severe. People with overactive thyroid, heart issues, or liver problems should avoid taking Flexeril due to these risks. By understanding the potential dangers of Flexeril abuse, users can better appreciate the importance of adhering to prescribed dosages and seeking help if dependency develops.

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What Is Flexeril Discontinuation Syndrome?

Flexeril discontinuation syndrome is a risk for individuals who abuse Flexeril for extended periods and in large amounts. This syndrome is similar to withdrawal from tricyclic antidepressants and includes symptoms such as:

• Flu-like Symptoms: General malaise, fatigue, chills, and feverish feelings.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent stomach sickness leads to vomiting and appetite loss.
• Sweating: Excessive sweating, sometimes occurring even during rest, causing discomfort and potential dehydration.
• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or achieving restful sleep, resulting in daytime fatigue and irritability.
• Muscle Aches: Generalized pain and discomfort in the muscles, similar to soreness after intense physical activity or during the flu.

These withdrawal symptoms often necessitate admission to an addiction treatment clinic. During treatment, cyclobenzaprine is gradually tapered off to reduce withdrawal discomfort. This approach helps patients safely and more comfortably discontinue the medication.

Long-Term Effects of Flexeril Abuse

Abusing Flexeril over an extended period can lead to a range of severe health issues and complications. While the drug is generally considered less addictive compared to other muscle relaxants and opioids, long-term misuse can still result in significant physical and psychological consequences. Here are some of the potential long-term effects:

1. Physical Dependency and Tolerance:

With prolonged use, individuals can develop a tolerance to Flexeril, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. This can quickly lead to physical dependency, where the body relies on the drug to function normally.

2. Liver Damage:

Chronic use of Flexeril can cause liver damage, including inflammation, swelling, and even permanent liver injury. This can result in jaundice, bile blockage, and other serious liver conditions.

3. Cardiovascular Issues:

Long-term abuse can strain the cardiovascular system, leading to elevated blood pressure (hypertension), irregular heart rhythms (dysrhythmias), and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

4. Mental Health Problems:

Flexeril abuse can impact mental health, causing issues such as confusion, anxiety, depression, and even psychosis. Chronic use can also lead to cognitive impairments, including memory problems and difficulties in thinking clearly.

5. Neurological Effects:

Prolonged use can affect the central nervous system, leading to dizziness, slurred speech, muscle stiffness, and coordination problems. Severe cases may result in neurological disorders.

6. Respiratory Depression:

Combining Flexeril with other central nervous system depressants, like alcohol or opioids, can lead to severe respiratory depression. Over time, this can cause chronic breathing problems or respiratory failure.

7. Addiction and Withdrawal:

Continuous abuse can lead to addiction, characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behaviors despite knowing the negative consequences. Withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, headaches, and muscle pain, can occur when the drug is abruptly stopped.

8. Impact on Quality of Life:

Long-term Flexeril abuse can affect various aspects of life, including personal relationships, job performance, and overall quality of life. The addiction can lead to social isolation, financial problems, and legal issues.

Risks of Combining Flexeril and Alcohol

Combining Flexeril and alcohol poses significant risks to the central nervous system (CNS), with potentially fatal consequences. Both substances are CNS depressants, slowing down the body’s natural processes, including respiration.

Individually, alcohol can cause deadly respiratory depression due to alcohol poisoning, and Flexeril abuse can similarly lead to dangerously slow breathing. When used together, these effects can overlap, dramatically increasing the risk of respiratory failure.

The combination also exacerbates the side effects of cyclobenzaprine, such as dizziness, impaired thinking, and drowsiness. This increased impairment heightens the risk of accidents and injuries, as users are more likely to harm themselves physically. It’s strongly advised not to consume alcohol while being treated with Flexeril.

Moreover, the impaired judgment caused by mixing Flexeril and alcohol can lead to poor decision-making and risky behaviors. Intoxicated individuals might operate vehicles, navigate unsafe areas, or engage in other dangerous activities.

There have been numerous fatalities linked to the combination of Flexeril and alcohol, often resulting from accidents or injuries due to severe intoxication.

In summary, the combined use of Flexeril and alcohol significantly increases the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression and physical harm. It is crucial to avoid alcohol consumption while taking Flexeril to prevent these dangerous interactions.

The Risk of Flexeril Overdose

A Flexeril overdose can lead to a range of severe and potentially life-threatening symptoms. Common effects include drowsiness and an increased heart rate. Less common but more severe effects include:

Tremors or Seizures

These involuntary muscle movements or convulsions indicate significant neurological distress and require immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.

Agitation

Heightened restlessness and anxiety can be both physically and mentally exhausting, often preceding more severe symptoms and necessitating intervention to prevent escalation.

Coma

A severe, life-threatening state of unconsciousness where the patient is unresponsive to stimuli. Immediate medical intervention is crucial to support vital functions and prevent irreversible damage.

Hypertension

Elevated blood pressure can strain the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of stroke, heart attack, or other serious complications. Monitoring and managing blood pressure is critical in overdose situations.

Slurred Speech

Difficulty articulating words indicates impaired brain function and coordination, often a sign of central nervous system depression or toxicity.

Confusion

Cognitive impairment, characterized by disorientation and lack of clarity in thought, signals significant neurological impact. This can worsen rapidly, leading to more severe symptoms like coma.

Drowsiness

Excessive sleepiness or lethargy indicates central nervous system depression and can progress to deeper unconscious states if not addressed.

Dizziness

A sense of spinning or imbalance increases the risk of falls and injuries, reflecting impaired brain function and altered blood flow.

Nausea Leading to Vomiting

Gastrointestinal distress can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, complicating the patient’s overall condition.

Hallucinations

Sensory perceptions without external stimuli suggest severe central nervous system disturbances. These can be frightening and lead to unpredictable behavior.

Severe Nervousness

Excessive anxiety and nervousness can lead to panic attacks and exacerbate other symptoms like hypertension and agitation.

Muscle Stiffness

Rigid muscles can impair mobility and indicate severe neurological impact, often associated with pain and discomfort.

Trouble with Breathing

Respiratory difficulties are critical and can lead to respiratory failure, requiring urgent medical intervention to ensure adequate oxygen supply to the body.

In rare cases, a Flexeril overdose can cause life-threatening symptoms, including:

• Cardiac arrest
• Chest pain
• Cardiac dysrhythmias
• Severe hypotension
• Seizures
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

While fatalities from cyclobenzaprine overdose are uncommon, over 12,000 people in the U.S. seek emergency treatment for Flexeril overdose annually. A study found that 209 individuals who overdosed on Flexeril alone survived. However, mixing Flexeril with other substances significantly increases the risk of fatal outcomes.

Will Flexeril Show Up on a Drug Test?

Flexeril, also known as cyclobenzaprine, is not a narcotic and typically does not appear on a standard 5-panel drug test. This basic test commonly screens for methamphetamine, opiates, THC, benzodiazepines, and cocaine. However, Flexeril can show up on tests specifically designed to detect tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) due to their similar chemical structure. These tests are less common.

Cyclobenzaprine has a half-life of about 18 hours, meaning it stays in the body for approximately 90 hours or nearly four days. For individuals with liver or kidney problems, the drug may remain in the system longer because the body takes more time to process and eliminate it. It’s crucial for anyone taking Flexeril to inform the test administrator, as it can cause false positives for other substances, such as cocaine.

Flexeril Can Be Abused, but the High Isn’t Worth the Risk

Flexeril, while not a narcotic, is often prescribed to patients who are at risk of abusing opiate painkillers. It is considered less risky for abuse and addiction compared to more potent pain medications.

However, Flexeril can still be misused, leading to dependency and significant health risks. The mild high it offers is not worth the potential for addiction. The relaxing effect can become an everyday necessity for some users, leading to physical dependence. This dependence can quickly escalate into an addiction characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behaviors, even when the negative consequences are evident.

 

Flexeril Addiction Treatment

Flexeril addiction, although less common, requires professional treatment to overcome. Attempting to quit on your own can be dangerous and increase the risk of overdose. Professional therapy for Flexeril addiction involves several tailored steps:

• Medical Evaluation: A thorough assessment to understand the extent of addiction and any co-occurring medical or psychiatric conditions.
• Detoxification: Medically supervised detox to safely manage withdrawal symptoms, especially in severe cases.
• Behavioral Therapies: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Contingency Management help individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with drug use.
• Support Groups and Counseling: Individual counseling, group therapy, and 12-step programs like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide a supportive environment for sharing experiences and coping strategies.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): While there are no specific medications for Flexeril addiction, MAT can manage withdrawal symptoms and co-occurring disorders.
• Healthy Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and sufficient sleep are crucial for recovery.
• Relapse Prevention Plan: Identifying high-risk situations and developing strategies is critical.
• Ongoing Care: Continuous follow-up care and participation in support groups are necessary to maintain sobriety and a sense of community.

The Risk of Overdosing

Accidental overdose is a significant risk for those who relapse after quitting Flexeril. The body may not be prepared for a high dose of cyclobenzaprine, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, confusion, slurred speech, heart attack, or seizures. Safe quitting requires professional rehab to manage these risks effectively.

Professional treatment for Flexeril addiction offers numerous benefits. It provides access to experts who understand the nuances of this type of addiction and helps uncover the underlying causes, whether depression, anxiety, or other factors. Addressing these root causes is essential for effective treatment.

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If you believe you are addicted to Flexeril, do not delay seeking help. Consult an addiction treatment specialist to determine if you have an addiction and to start the necessary recovery steps. At Northpoint Recovery, we understand the challenges of overcoming addiction and are dedicated to supporting you through the entire process. If you have questions about Flexeril addiction or treatment options, please contact us immediately for the answers and help you need.

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