Indications
Carilax is recommended for:
- Relieving discomfort from acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions in adults.
- Providing sedation and reducing anxiety in patients with severe pain.
- Supporting physical therapy for patients with injuries by reducing muscle spasms.
Note: Always follow the advice of a registered healthcare provider.
Pharmacology
Carisoprodol, the active ingredient in Carilax, works as an indirect agonist at GABA-A receptors, enhancing chloride channel conductance in the central nervous system (CNS). GABA receptor agonists like Carisoprodol offer sedative, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant effects. Its metabolite, Meprobamate, contributes additional sedative and anxiolytic properties. Carisoprodol effectively reduces the transmission of nerve impulses between the brain, spinal cord, and muscles, leading to muscle relaxation and reduced spasms.
Dosage & Administration
- Adults (18 years and older): The recommended dose is 250 mg to 350 mg, three times a day, with an additional dose at bedtime. The maximum duration of Carilax treatment should not exceed two to three weeks.
- Special considerations: Exercise caution when prescribing Carilax to patients with liver or kidney impairment or those with reduced CYP2C19 activity.
Note: Always take Carilax as per your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Drug Interactions
- CNS depressants: Caution should be exercised when using Carilax with alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, or tricyclic antidepressants due to the increased sedative effects.
- CYP2C19 inhibitors (e.g., Omeprazole, Fluvoxamine): May increase Carilax exposure. Use with caution.
- CYP2C19 inducers (e.g., Rifampin): May decrease Carilax exposure, reducing its effectiveness.
Contraindications
Carilax should not be used by individuals with:
- A history of acute intermittent porphyria.
- A known hypersensitivity to carbamate compounds, such as meprobamate.
Side Effects
Common side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
Pregnancy & Lactation
- Pregnancy: Category C. The use of Carilax during pregnancy may affect fetal development and breastfeeding.
- Lactation: Carisoprodol may reduce milk production and affect infant feeding. Use with caution while nursing.
Precautions & Warnings
- Due to its sedative properties, Carilax may impair the ability to perform tasks requiring full mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
- Drug dependence, withdrawal, and abuse: Extended use can lead to dependency.
- Seizure risk: Seizures may occur with overdose or misuse.
Overdose Effects
Overdose can cause severe CNS depression, including:
- Death
- Coma
- Respiratory depression
- Hypotension
- Seizures
Immediate medical treatment is required, including:
- Basic life support (BLS) measures.
- Gastric lavage if within an hour of ingestion.
- Seizure treatment with intravenous benzodiazepines.
- Airway protection and respiratory support if needed.
Therapeutic Class
- Locally Acting Skeletal Muscle Relaxants
Storage Conditions
- Store in a cool, dry place at room temperature (20°C-25°C).
- Keep out of reach of children and protect from direct light.
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