Key information summary
Efficacy & effects
This medication is used to relieve pain and muscle stiffness associated with musculoskeletal disorders. It is particularly effective in improving symptoms related to low back pain, shoulder pain such as shoulder-hand syndrome, adhesive capsulitis, and symptoms due to degenerative spondylosis. This medication significantly reduces the discomfort of pain in patients' daily lives. It is used to help relieve musculoskeletal-related pain.
Dosage
Oral: Administer methocarbamol at a total daily dosage of 1.5-2.25 g divided into 3 oral doses. Injection: Administer methocarbamol with a single injection of 500 mg intramuscularly or intravenously. Do not exceed 1 g in a single dose and a total of 3 g in one day, and do not administer for more than 3 consecutive days. If pain persists, the same process may be repeated cautiously after 48 hours.
Precautions
This medication is provided in an injection form, and care must be taken when opening the ampoule as glass fragments may mix in. Caution is particularly necessary when using this medication in children or the elderly. This medication should not be used in certain patients. For example, individuals who have had an allergic reaction to this drug or similar drugs, those with suspected or known kidney function problems, those with severe muscle weakness, those in a state of confusion, or those with a history of brain injury or seizures should not be administered this medication. Use of this medication should be done cautiously in patients with impaired liver function. Additionally, since one of the ingredients in this medication, sulfites, can cause allergic reactions or asthma attacks, special caution should be taken in asthma patients or those sensitive to sulfites. The use of this medication may cause allergic symptoms such as rash, hives, and itching, and in severe cases, symptoms similar to shock may occur; therefore, usage should be discontinued immediately if such symptoms appear. Additionally, this medication can cause a decrease in heart rate or low blood pressure, as well as central nervous system symptoms including drowsiness, dizziness, balance disturbances, headaches, fainting, and blurred vision. If these symptoms occur, it may be necessary to lower the dose or stop using the medication. It can also affect the gastrointestinal system, potentially causing nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, heartburn, diarrhea, or constipation. A metallic taste may also be felt, and rarely, fever or nasal congestion may occur. At the injection site, pain or hard lumps may develop, and rarely, thrombophlebitis may occur, so the injection site should be monitored closely. This medication can cause drowsiness or reduced concentration; therefore, it is safest to avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery during administration. When used with other central nervous system depressants or certain antidepressants, the effects may be amplified, and consultation with a physician is necessary; alcohol should also be avoided. Pregnant women or women who may become pregnant should only use this medication when the benefits outweigh the risks, and nursing mothers should preferably avoid its use. Safety and efficacy have not been established for infants or children, so its use is not recommended. Elderly patients may have reduced physical function, necessitating special attention such as dose adjustments. This medication may affect certain test results, so it is important to inform healthcare providers of its use during testing. Injectable form is used only when oral administration is not feasible, and when administered intravenously, it should be diluted and administered slowly for safety. When injecting, the patient should be positioned on their side, and the ampoule should be wrapped with an ethanol-soaked cotton ball to prevent glass fragments from mixing in while opening.
Side effects
Hives, severe swelling (edema), chest tightness, difficulty breathing, cold sweat, pallor → severe allergic reaction Asthma attack → respiratory issues Serious neurological symptoms such as headaches, seizures, confusion, visual disturbances, and paralysis may occur rarely, so caution is advised