Zanaflex

Muscle Relaxants, Centrally Acting, Plain

Oral Administration

Tizanidine should be administered consistently with or without food. Once the formulation has been selected and the decision has been made whether to take with or without food, this regimen should not be altered. Instruct patients that changing whether tizanidine is taken with or without food may result in increased adverse events or delayed or more rapid onset of action.

Severe

bradycardia / Rapid / 2.0-10.0
Stevens-Johnson syndrome / Delayed / Incidence not known
exfoliative dermatitis / Delayed / Incidence not known
hepatic failure / Delayed / Incidence not known
hepatic necrosis / Delayed / Incidence not known
angioedema / Rapid / Incidence not known
anaphylactoid reactions / Rapid / Incidence not known

Moderate

hypotension / Rapid / 16.0-67.0
cystitis / Delayed / 0.1-10.0
elevated hepatic enzymes / Delayed / 6.0-6.0
constipation / Delayed / 4.0-4.0
dyskinesia / Delayed / 3.0-3.0
excitability / Early / 3.0-3.0
hallucinations / Early / 3.0-3.0
blurred vision / Early / 3.0-3.0
hepatitis / Delayed / 0-1.0
hypercholesterolemia / Delayed / 0-1.0
leukopenia / Delayed / 0-1.0
hyperlipidemia / Delayed / 0-1.0
anemia / Delayed / 0-1.0
thrombocytopenia / Delayed / 0-1.0
QT prolongation / Rapid / Incidence not known
depression / Delayed / Incidence not known
jaundice / Delayed / Incidence not known
withdrawal / Early / Incidence not known

Mild

drowsiness / Early / 48.0-92.0
xerostomia / Early / 49.0-88.0
weakness / Early / 41.0-78.0
asthenia / Delayed / 41.0-78.0
fatigue / Early / 41.0-78.0
dizziness / Early / 16.0-45.0
infection / Delayed / 6.0-6.0
influenza / Delayed / 3.0-3.0
vomiting / Early / 3.0-3.0
pharyngitis / Delayed / 3.0-3.0
rhinitis / Early / 3.0-3.0
increased urinary frequency / Early / 3.0-3.0
leukocytosis / Delayed / 0-1.0
syncope / Early / Incidence not known
tremor / Early / Incidence not known
paresthesias / Delayed / Incidence not known
rash / Early / Incidence not known
arthralgia / Delayed / Incidence not known

Zanaflex

Rx

Oral muscle relaxant; structure related to clonidine; pharmacology mediated by alpha2-receptors and may cause significant orthostasis with initial dosing; efficacy similar to baclofen in treating spasticity.

For the treatment of spasticity.
NOTE: Because of its short duration, reserve tizanidine for activities and times when spasticity control is most important. Use tizanidine with caution when spasticity is beneficial to obtain increased function or to sustain posture and balance during movement.
Oral dosage Adults

2 mg PO every 6 to 8 hours as needed up to a maximum of 6 mg in 24 hours, initially. May increase the dose by 2 to 4 mg/dose every 1 to 4 days until a satisfactory reduction of muscle tone is achieved. Max: 36 mg/day. Single doses more than 16 mg have not been studied. To discontinue, reduce dose by 2 to 4 mg/day, particularly in persons who have been receiving high doses for long periods (e.g., 20 to 36 mg/day for 9 weeks or more) or who are receiving concomitant opioids, to minimize the risk of withdrawal and rebound hypertension, tachycardia, and hypertonia.

Hepatic Impairment

Because of potential hepatotoxicity, tizanidine should be used with caution in patients with any hepatic impairment. Individual doses should be reduced during dose titration. If higher doses are required, increase individual doses rather than dosing frequency.

Renal Impairment

CrCl < 25 ml/min: Individual doses should be reduced during dose titration. If higher doses are required, increase individual doses rather than dosing frequency. Monitor closely for side effects; tizanidine clearance is reduced > 50% in renally impaired patients.
 
Intermittent hemodialysis
It is not known whether tizanidine is removed by hemodialysis; it appears that no supplemental dosage is needed following hemodialysis.

Acebutolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Acetaminophen: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin; Diphenhydramine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Caffeine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Dihydrocodeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Pyrilamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine : (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Doxylamine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of doxylamine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dichloralphenazone; Isometheptene: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like dichloralphenazone can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Diphenhydramine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Ibuprofen: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Reduce the initial oxycodone dosage by one-third to one-half when using the extended-release tablets. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Pamabrom; Pyrilamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acrivastine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Acyclovir: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and acyclovir as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and acyclovir is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Alfentanil: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If an opiate agonist is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use a lower initial dose of the opiate and titrate to clinical response. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Aliskiren: (Moderate) Aliskiren can enhance the effects of tizanidine on blood pressure if given concomitantly. This additive effect may be desirable, but dosages must be adjusted accordingly. Blood pressure and electrolytes should be routinely monitored in patients receiving aliskiren.
Aliskiren; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Aliskiren can enhance the effects of tizanidine on blood pressure if given concomitantly. This additive effect may be desirable, but dosages must be adjusted accordingly. Blood pressure and electrolytes should be routinely monitored in patients receiving aliskiren.
Alprazolam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Ambrisentan: (Moderate) Although no specific interactions have been documented, ambrisentan has vasodilatory effects and may contribute additive hypotensive effects when given with other antihypertensive agents. Patients receiving ambrisentan in combination with other antihypertensive agents should be monitored for decreases in blood pressure.
Amiloride: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Amiloride; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Amiodarone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and amiodarone as increased serum concentrations of tizanidine may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with the 2 mg dose and increase daily in 2 to 4 mg increments based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and amiodarone is a CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Amobarbital: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Anagrelide: (Moderate) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and anagrelide as increased serum concentrations of tizanidine may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with the 2 mg dose and increase daily in 2 to 4 mg increments based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate; anagrelide demonstrates some limited inhibitory activity towards CYP1A2 which may present a theoretical potential for interaction.
Angiotensin II receptor antagonists: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Anxiolytics; Sedatives; and Hypnotics: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of tizanidine with anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression. A reduction in the dose of these medications may be considered to minimize additive sedative effects, if they occur. With hypnotic medications, the risk of next-day psychomotor impairment is increased during co-administration of other CNS depressants, which may decrease the ability to perform tasks requiring full mental alertness such as driving.
Aripiprazole: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of aripiprazole and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Aspirin, ASA; Butalbital; Caffeine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Aspirin, ASA; Carisoprodol; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Aspirin, ASA; Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Reduce the initial oxycodone dosage by one-third to one-half when using the extended-release tablets.
Atenolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Atenolol; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Azelastine: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of azelastine and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Azelastine; Fluticasone: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of azelastine and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Baclofen: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of baclofen and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Barbiturates: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Belladonna; Opium: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause respiratory depression, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid agonists with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Consider prescribing naloxone for emergency treatment of opioid overdose.
Benzhydrocodone; Acetaminophen: (Major) Concomitant use of benzhydrocodone with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Benzodiazepines: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Beta-adrenergic blockers: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Betaxolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Bisoprolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Bisoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Brimonidine; Timolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Brompheniramine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Brompheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Brompheniramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Brompheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Brompheniramine; Pseudoephedrine; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Buprenorphine: (Major) Concomitant use of buprenorphine and tizanidine can increase the risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant use of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor patients closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.
Buprenorphine; Naloxone: (Major) Concomitant use of buprenorphine and tizanidine can increase the risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant use of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor patients closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.
Butabarbital: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen; Caffeine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Butalbital; Aspirin; Caffeine; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Butorphanol: (Moderate) Concomitant use of butorphanol with other CNS depressants, such as tizanidine, can potentiate the effects of butorphanol on respiratory depression, CNS depression, and sedation.
Calcium Carbonate; Famotidine; Magnesium Hydroxide: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and famotidine as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and famotidine is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Cannabidiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and cannabidiol as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and cannabidiol is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Capmatinib: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and capmatinib as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and capmatinib is a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Carbidopa; Levodopa; Entacapone: (Moderate) COMT inhibitors should be given cautiously with other agents that cause CNS depression, such as tizanidine, due to the possibility of additive sedation. COMT inhibitors have also been associated with sudden sleep onset during activities of daily living such as driving, which has resulted in accidents in some cases. Prescribers should re-assess patients for drowsiness or sleepiness regularly throughout treatment, especially since events may occur well after the start of treatment. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or other tasks requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them.
Carbinoxamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Carteolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Carvedilol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Celecoxib; Tramadol: (Major) Concomitant use of tramadol with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Cenobamate: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of cenobamate and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Central-acting adrenergic agents: (Major) The use of tizanidine with other alpha 2-adrenergic agonists (such as central-acting adrenergic agonist antihypertensive agents) should be avoided because hypotensive effects may be cumulative. Tizanidine is an alpha 2-adrenergic agonist that can produce hypotension. Syncope has been reported in the postmarketing setting.
Chlophedianol; Dexchlorpheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorcyclizine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlordiazepoxide: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Chlordiazepoxide; Amitriptyline: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Chlordiazepoxide; Clidinium: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Chlorpheniramine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Dihydrocodeine; Phenylephrine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Ibuprofen; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Cimetidine: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and cimetidine as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and cimetidine is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Ciprofloxacin: (Contraindicated) Concomitant use of tizanidine and ciprofloxacin is contraindicated due to the risk of tizanidine toxicity, including clinically significant hypotension, bradycardia, and sedation. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and ciprofloxacin is a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor. After a single 4 mg tizanidine dose, Cmax and AUC increased by 7-fold and 10-fold, respectively, when administered with ciprofloxacin during pharmacokinetic trials.
Clemastine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Clonazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Clorazepate: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Codeine; Guaifenesin: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Codeine; Guaifenesin; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Codeine; Phenylephrine; Promethazine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Codeine; Promethazine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
COMT inhibitors: (Moderate) COMT inhibitors should be given cautiously with other agents that cause CNS depression, such as tizanidine, due to the possibility of additive sedation. COMT inhibitors have also been associated with sudden sleep onset during activities of daily living such as driving, which has resulted in accidents in some cases. Prescribers should re-assess patients for drowsiness or sleepiness regularly throughout treatment, especially since events may occur well after the start of treatment. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or other tasks requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them.
Cyclizine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Cyproheptadine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Desogestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Deutetrabenazine: (Moderate) Use tizanidine and deutetrabenazine together with caution due to additive CNS depression. Monitor patients for symptoms of excess sedation.
Dexchlorpheniramine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Dexchlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Dexmedetomidine: (Moderate) Due to the anesthetic effects of dexmedetomidine, concurrent use with other CNS depressants, such as skeletal muscle relaxants, could result in additive sedative effects and possibly prolong recovery from anesthesia.
Dextromethorphan; Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Diazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Dienogest; Estradiol valerate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Difelikefalin: (Moderate) Monitor for dizziness, somnolence, mental status changes, and gait disturbances if concomitant use of difelikefalin with CNS depressants is necessary. Concomitant use may increase the risk for these adverse reactions.
Dimenhydrinate: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of dimenhydrinate and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Diphenhydramine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Diphenhydramine; Ibuprofen: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Diphenhydramine; Naproxen: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Dorzolamide; Timolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Doxazosin: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Doxylamine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of doxylamine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Doxylamine; Pyridoxine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of doxylamine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Dronabinol: (Moderate) Concomitant use of dronabinol with other CNS depressants, like tizanidine, can potentiate the effects of dronabinol on respiratory depression.
Drospirenone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Drospirenone; Estetrol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Drospirenone; Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Drospirenone; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Drospirenone; Ethinyl Estradiol; Levomefolate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Elagolix; Estradiol; Norethindrone acetate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Emapalumab: (Moderate) Monitor for decreased efficacy of tizanidine and adjust the dose as needed during coadministration with emapalumab. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate with a narrow therapeutic range. Emapalumab may normalize CYP450 activity, which may decrease the efficacy of drugs that are CYP450 substrates due to increased metabolism.
Entacapone: (Moderate) COMT inhibitors should be given cautiously with other agents that cause CNS depression, such as tizanidine, due to the possibility of additive sedation. COMT inhibitors have also been associated with sudden sleep onset during activities of daily living such as driving, which has resulted in accidents in some cases. Prescribers should re-assess patients for drowsiness or sleepiness regularly throughout treatment, especially since events may occur well after the start of treatment. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or other tasks requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them.
Eplerenone: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Epoprostenol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Esketamine: (Major) Closely monitor patients receiving esketamine and skeletal muscle relaxants for sedation and other CNS depressant effects. Patients who receive a dose of esketamine should not drive or engage in other activities requiring alertness until the next day after a restful sleep.
Esmolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Estazolam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Estradiol; Levonorgestrel: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Estradiol; Norethindrone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Estradiol; Norgestimate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Ethanol: (Major) Advise patients to avoid alcohol-containing beverages while taking tizanidine. Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants can cause additive CNS depression and hypotension. Alcohol also increases the overall amount of drug in the bloodstream after a dose of tizanidine. Alcohol increases the AUC and Cmax of tizanidine by about 20% and 15%, respectively, resulting in an increase in side effects associated with tizanidine.
Ethinyl Estradiol; Norelgestromin: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Ethinyl Estradiol; Norethindrone Acetate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Ethinyl Estradiol; Norgestrel: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Ethynodiol Diacetate; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Etonogestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Famotidine: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and famotidine as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and famotidine is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Fenfluramine: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of fenfluramine and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Fentanyl: (Major) Concomitant use of fentanyl with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Fluphenazine: (Moderate) Use tizanidine and fluphenazine together with caution due to additive CNS depression. Monitor patients for symptoms of excess sedation.
Flurazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Fluvoxamine: (Contraindicated) Concomitant use of tizanidine and fluvoxamine is contraindicated due to the risk of tizanidine toxicity, including clinically significant hypotension, bradycardia, and sedation. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and fluvoxamine is a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor. After a single 4 mg tizanidine dose, Cmax, AUC, and half-life increased by 12-fold, 33--fold, and 3-fold, respectively, when administered with fluvoxamine during pharmacokinetic trials.
Food: (Major) Advise patients to avoid cannabis use while taking CNS depressants due to the risk for additive CNS depression and potential for other cognitive adverse reactions.
Fosphenytoin: (Minor) One case of increased phenytoin serum concentrations and associated drowsiness has been reported with the addition of tizanidine therapy. The mechanism and significance of this potential interaction with phenytoin or fosphenytoin is unknown.
Gabapentin: (Major) Initiate gabapentin at the lowest recommended dose and monitor patients for symptoms of sedation and somnolence during coadministration of gabapentin and tizanidine. Concomitant use of gabapentin with tizanidine may cause additive CNS depression. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of excessive CNS depression.
Givosiran: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of givosiran and tizanidine due to the risk of increased tizanidine-related adverse reactions. If use is necessary, consider decreasing the tizanidine dose. Tizanidine is a sensitive CYP1A2 substrate. Givosiran may moderately reduce hepatic CYP1A2 enzyme activity because of its pharmacological effects on the hepatic heme biosynthesis pathway.
Guaifenesin; Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Homatropine; Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Hydrocodone; Ibuprofen: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Hydrocodone; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Hydromorphone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations.
Hydroxyzine: (Major) Use tizanidine and hydroxyzine together with caution due to additive CNS depression. Consider tizanidine dosage reduction and monitor patients for symptoms of excess sedation.
Ibuprofen; Famotidine: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and famotidine as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and famotidine is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Ibuprofen; Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Reduce the initial oxycodone dosage by one-third to one-half when using the extended-release tablets.
Iloprost: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Indapamide: (Moderate) The effects of indapamide may be additive when administered with other antihypertensive agents or diuretics. This may be desirable, but occasionally orthostatic hypotension may occur. Dosages should be adjusted based on clinical response.
Labetalol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Lasmiditan: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of lasmiditan and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Leflunomide: (Moderate) Closely monitor for reduced efficacy of tizanidine if coadministered with leflunomide. An adjustment of the tizanidine dose may be required. Following oral administration, leflunomide is metabolized to an active metabolite, teriflunomide, which is responsible for essentially all of leflunomide's in vivo activity. In vivo data suggest that teriflunomide is a weak inducer of CYP1A2. Coadministration of teriflunomide with CYP1A2 substrates, such as tizanidine, may decrease tizanidine exposure and lead to a reduction in efficacy.
Lemborexant: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of lemborexant and tizanidine. Dosage adjustments of lemborexant and tizanidine may be necessary when administered together because of potentially additive CNS effects. The risk of next-day impairment, including impaired driving, is increased if lemborexant is taken with other CNS depressants.
Leniolisib: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and leniolisib as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and leniolisib is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Leuprolide; Norethindrone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Levobunolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Levonorgestrel: (Major) Avoid concomi

tant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Levonorgestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Levonorgestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous Bisglycinate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Levonorgestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous Fumarate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Levorphanol: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with methocarbamol may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with methocarbamol to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Reduce the initial levorphanol dosage by 50% or more.
Lofexidine: (Moderate) Use tizanidine and lofexidine together with caution due to additive CNS depression. Monitor patients for symptoms of excess sedation and hypotension.
Loop diuretics: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant loop diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Lorazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Loxapine: (Moderate) Loxapine is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. The concurrent use of loxapine with other CNS depressants (e.g., muscle relaxants such as tizanidine) can increase the risk of respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and syncope. Therefore, consider reducing the dose of CNS depressants if used concomitantly with loxapine.
Lumateperone: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of lumateperone and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Lurasidone: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants can cause additive CNS depression. These agents include but are not limited to: antipsychotics.
Mecamylamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Meclizine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Meperidine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations.
Methadone: (Major) Concomitant use of methadone with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Methohexital: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Methscopolamine: (Moderate) CNS depression can be increased when methscopolamine is combined with other CNS depressants such as skeletal muscle relaxants.
Metoprolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Metoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Mexiletine: (Major) Tizanidine is primarily metabolized by CYP1A2. If possible, avoid the concurrent use of tizanidine with other CYP1A2 inhibitors, such as mexiletine, as concurrent use could lead to substantial increases in tizanidine blood concentrations. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, initiate tizanidine therapy with the 2 mg dose and increase in 2 to 4 mg increments daily based on patient response to therapy. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occur.
Midazolam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Molindone: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and antipsychotics like molindone can cause additive CNS depression.
Morphine: (Major) Concomitant use of morphine with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. For extended-release morphine tablets (MS Contin and Morphabond), start with 15 mg every 12 hours. Morphine; naltrexone should be initiated at 1/3 to 1/2 the recommended starting dosage. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Morphine; Naltrexone: (Major) Concomitant use of morphine with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. For extended-release morphine tablets (MS Contin and Morphabond), start with 15 mg every 12 hours. Morphine; naltrexone should be initiated at 1/3 to 1/2 the recommended starting dosage. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Nabilone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of nabilone with other CNS depressants, like tizanidine, can potentiate the effects of nabilone on CNS and respiratory depression.
Nadolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Nalbuphine: (Major) Concomitant use of nalbuphine with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of nalbuphine with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations.
Nebivolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Nebivolol; Valsartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Norethindrone Acetate; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous fumarate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Norethindrone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Norethindrone; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Norethindrone; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous fumarate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Norgestimate; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Norgestrel: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Obeticholic Acid: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and obeticholic acid as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and obeticholic acid is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Oliceridine: (Major) Concomitant use of oliceridine with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of oliceridine with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect.
Opicapone: (Moderate) COMT inhibitors should be given cautiously with other agents that cause CNS depression, such as tizanidine, due to the possibility of additive sedation. COMT inhibitors have also been associated with sudden sleep onset during activities of daily living such as driving, which has resulted in accidents in some cases. Prescribers should re-assess patients for drowsiness or sleepiness regularly throughout treatment, especially since events may occur well after the start of treatment. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or other tasks requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them.
Oral Contraceptives: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Osilodrostat: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and osilodrostat as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and osilodrostat is a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Oxazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Reduce the initial oxycodone dosage by one-third to one-half when using the extended-release tablets.
Oxymorphone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Reduce the initial oxymorphone dosage by one-third to one-half.
Pacritinib: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and pacritinib as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg per day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and pacritinib is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: (Major) Tizanidine is primarily metabolized by CYP1A2. The presystemic availability of tizanidine has been shown to be substantially increased by coadministration with CYP1A2 inhibitors, such as peginterferon alfa-2b. Average increases in tizanidine AUC of 10-fold and 33-fold have been reported following administration of strong CYP1A2 inhibitors. These increases in tizanidine concentrations have been associated with significant hypotensive and sedative effects. The use of potent CYP1A2 inhibitors with tizanidine is contraindicated. If possible, avoid the concurrent use of tizanidine with other CYP1A2 inhibitors, as concurrent use could lead to substantial increases in tizanidine blood concentrations. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occur.
Pentazocine: (Major) Concomitant use of pentazocine with tizanidine may cause respiratory depression, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of pentazocine with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Consider prescribing naloxone for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose.
Pentazocine; Naloxone: (Major) Concomitant use of pentazocine with tizanidine may cause respiratory depression, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of pentazocine with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Consider prescribing naloxone for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose.
Pentobarbital: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Phenobarbital: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Phenobarbital; Hyoscyamine; Atropine; Scopolamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Phenoxybenzamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Phentolamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Phenytoin: (Minor) One case of increased phenytoin serum concentrations and associated drowsiness has been reported with the addition of tizanidine therapy. The mechanism and significance of this potential interaction with phenytoin is unknown.
Pindolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Potassium-sparing diuretics: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Prazosin: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Pregabalin: (Major) Initiate pregabalin at the lowest recommended dose and monitor patients for symptoms of sedation and somnolence during coadministration of pregabalin and tizanidine. Concomitant use of pregabalin with tizanidine may cause additive CNS depression. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of excessive CNS depression.
Primidone: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Propafenone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and propafenone as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and propafenone is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Propranolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Propranolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Pseudoephedrine; Triprolidine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Pyrilamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Quazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Ramelteon: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like ramelteon can cause additive CNS depression.
Relugolix; Estradiol; Norethindrone acetate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Remifentanil: (Major) Concomitant use of remifentanil with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Remimazolam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Ritlecitinib: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and ritlecitinib as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and ritlecitinib is a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Rucaparib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of tizanidine with rucaparib if possible due the risk of increased plasma concentrations of tizanidine. If concomitant use is unavoidable, monitor for an increase in tizanidine-related adverse reactions (e.g., hypotension, bradycardia, excessive drowsiness). Tizanidine is a sensitive CYP1A2 substrate and rucaparib is a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Sarilumab: (Moderate) Monitor for reduced efficacy of tizanidine if coadministered with sarilumab. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilmuab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as tizanidine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Secobarbital: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Secukinumab: (Moderate) If secukinumab is initiated or discontinued in a patient taking tizanidine, monitor for altered patient response to tizanidine; tizanidine dose adjustments may be needed. The formation of CYP450 enzymes may be altered by increased concentrations of cytokines during chronic inflammation. Thus, the formation of CYP450 enzymes could be normalized during secukinumab administration. In theory, clinically relevant drug interactions may occur with CYP450 substrates that have a narrow therapeutic index such as tizanidine.
Segesterone Acetate; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Siltuximab: (Moderate) Monitor for reduced efficacy of tizanidine if coadministered with siltuximab. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by siltuximab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as tizanidine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when siltuximab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping siltuximab. In vitro, siltuximab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Spironolactone: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Spironolactone; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Stiripentol: (Moderate) Consider a dose adjustment of tizanidine when coadministered with stiripentol. Coadministration may alter plasma concentrations of tizanidine resulting in an increased risk of adverse reactions and/or decreased efficacy. Additive somnolence and sedation may occur. Tizanidine is a sensitive CYP1A2 substrate. In vitro data predicts inhibition or induction of CYP1A2 by stiripentol potentially resulting in clinically significant interactions.
Sufentanil: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If an opiate agonist is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use a lower initial dose of the opiate and titrate to clinical response. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Tapentadol: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations.
Temazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Terazosin: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Teriflunomide: (Moderate) Use caution when administering teriflunomide and tizanidine concurrently. In vivo data suggest that teriflunomide is a weak inducer of CYP1A2. Coadministration of teriflunomide with CYP1A2 substrates, such as tizanidine, may decrease tizanidine exposure and lead to a reduction in efficacy.
Thalidomide: (Moderate) Thalidomide frequently causes drowsiness and somnolence and may enhance the sedative activity of tizanidine.
Thiazide diuretics: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Thiothixene: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and antipsychotics like thiothixene can cause additive CNS depression.
Ticlopidine: (Major) Tizanidine is primarily metabolized by CYP1A2. If possible, avoid the concurrent use of tizanidine with other CYP1A2 inhibitors, such as ticlopidine, as concurrent use could lead to substantial increases in tizanidine blood concentrations. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, initiate tizanidine therapy with the 2 mg dose and increase in 2 to 4 mg increments daily based on patient response to therapy. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occur.
Timolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Tocilizumab: (Moderate) Monitor for reduced efficacy of tizanidine if coadministered with tocilizumab. An adjustment of tizanidine dose may be required. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by tocilizumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as tizanidine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when tocilizumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping tocilizumab. In vitro, tocilizumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Tolcapone: (Moderate) COMT inhibitors should be given cautiously with other agents that cause CNS depression, such as tizanidine, due to the possibility of additive sedation. COMT inhibitors have also been associated with sudden sleep onset during activities of daily living such as driving, which has resulted in accidents in some cases. Prescribers should re-assess patients for drowsiness or sleepiness regularly throughout treatment, especially since events may occur well after the start of treatment. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or other tasks requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them.
Tramadol: (Major) Concomitant use of tramadol with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Tramadol; Acetaminophen: (Major) Concomitant use of tramadol with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Trandolapril; Verapamil: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and verapamil as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and verapamil is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Treprostinil: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Triamterene: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Triamterene; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Triazolam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Triprolidine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Valerian, Valeriana officinalis: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with the phytomedicinal valerian, Valeriana officinalis can cause additive CNS depression.
Vasodilators: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Vemurafenib: (Major) Avoid the use of vemurafenib with tizanidine; the tizanidine Cmax and AUC values were significantly increased when these agents were coadministered in a drug interaction study. If concomitant use of these drugs is required, initiate tizanidine at the 2-mg dose and increase in 2- to 4-mg increments daily based on the patient response. Monitor patients closely for tizanidine toxicity; if adverse reactions such as hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occur, reduce or discontinue tizanidine therapy. Vemurafenib is a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor and tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate with a narrow therapeutic index. In a drug interaction study (n = 16), the tizanidine Cmax increased 2.2-fold and the tizanidine AUC value increased 4.7-fold when a single 2-mg PO dose of tizanidine was given following 21 days of vemurafenib 960 mg PO twice daily in cancer patients.
Verapamil: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and verapamil as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and verapamil is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Viloxazine: (Contraindicated) Concomitant use of viloxazine and tizanidine is contraindicated due to the increased risk for tizanidine-related adverse effects and exposure. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and viloxazine is a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with other strong CYP1A2 inhibitors increased the exposure of tizanidine by 10 and 33-fold.
Zileuton: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and zileuton as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and zileuton is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.

Tizanidine/Tizanidine Hydrochloride/Zanaflex Oral Cap: 2mg, 4mg, 6mg
Tizanidine/Tizanidine Hydrochloride/Zanaflex Oral Tab: 2mg, 4mg

Adults

36 mg/day PO.

Elderly

36 mg/day PO. Maximum doses of tizanidine should be used cautiously in elderly patients; drug clearance may be substantially decreased.

Adolescents

Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Children

Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Mechanism of Action: Tizanidine is a central-acting alpha2-adrenergic agonist which acts at presynaptic receptors. It is structurally and pharmacologically related to clonidine, but has only 2—10% of clonidine's antihypertensive potency. The antispasmodic activity of tizanidine results from agonism at central pre-synaptic alpha2-receptors. The response to agonism at these receptors is a decrease in the release of excitatory amino acids which in turn leads to inhibition of spinal motor neurons. In animal models, tizanidine has no direct effect on skeletal muscle fibers or the neuromuscular junction, and no major effect on monosynaptic spinal reflexes. The effects of tizanidine are greatest on polysynaptic pathways. The overall effect of these actions is thought to reduce facilitation of spinal motor neurons.

Tizanidine is administered orally as capsules or tablets. It is approximately 30% bound to plasma proteins. Approximately 95% of an oral dose is metabolized, primarily by the hepatic cytochrome isoenzyme CYP1A2 and presumably to inactive metabolites with half-lives ranging from 20 to 40 hours. The half-life of tizanidine is approximately 2 hours. Following single and multiple oral dosing, about 60% and 20% of the dose is recovered in the urine and feces, respectively.
 
Affected cytochrome P450 isoenzymes and drug transporters: CYP1A2
Tizanidine is primarily metabolized by the hepatic cytochrome isoenzyme CYP1A2.

Oral Route

Tizanidine is well-absorbed, with an absolute oral bioavailability of 40% due to extensive first pass metabolism in the liver; the tablets and capsules are bioequivalent under fasted conditions, but not under fed conditions. Following oral administration of the tablet or capsule in the fasted state, peak plasma concentrations of tizanidine occur in about 1 hour. Food increases the Cmax of the tablets by about 30% and delays the time to peak concentration by approximately 25 minutes. When the capsules are given with food, the Cmax is decreased by 20% and the Tmax is increased by 2—3 hours. As a result, the Cmax of the capsules is about two-thirds the Cmax for the tablet when given with food. Food also increases the extent of absorption of both the tablets and capsules; the increase is approximately 30% for the tablets and about 10% for the capsules. Sprinkling the contents of the capsule on applesauce results in a 15—20% increase in Cmax and AUC of tizanidine and a 15-minute decrease in the time to peak concentration. Once absorbed, tizanidine is widely distributed throughout the body. The intrapatient effects of tizanidine on muscle tone are correlated with plasma concentrations; adverse effects are dose-related.

Pregnancy

It is not known whether tizanidine is excreted into human breast milk, although as a lipid soluble drug, it might be expected to pass into breast milk. The effect of this exposure is not known and because of the possibility for serious adverse events in a nursing infant (e.g., sedation, hypotension, hepatic injury, and hallucinations/psychotic-like symptoms) the use of tizanidine during breast-feeding is not recommended. Consider the benefits of breast-feeding, the risk of potential infant drug exposure, and the risk of an untreated or inadequately treated condition. If a breast-feeding infant experiences an adverse effect related to a maternally ingested drug, healthcare providers are encouraged to report the adverse effect to the FDA.