The Flexeril High: Abuse, Addiction and Recovery

Cyclobenzaprine is a prescription drug and muscle relaxant that is used to treat pain caused by muscle spasms. On a chemical level, cyclobenzaprine is related to a type of drug called tricyclic antidepressants, which are used to treat depression, anxiety, and pain. Both cyclobenzaprine and tricyclic antidepressants are frequently abused, according to the FDA. Combining Flexeril with alcohol and other drugs is also a common indicator of cyclobenzaprine addiction. This is an extremely dangerous and often life-threatening habit. At our Lake Worth drug rehab in Florida, we offer a residential addiction treatment that focuses on helping patients recover from their addictions under the 24-hour care of our team.

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Alcohol, also a CNS depressant, is commonly used along with Flexeril. Using Flexeril and alcohol causes a more intense “high” or sedation. If people use high doses of Flexeril, it alters brain activity and can cause various effects. Dependence happens when people take higher doses for an extended time. Their body gets used to the higher doses and then needs even more to get the same effects. Flexeril depresses the user’s central nervous system, easing discomfort and increasing feelings of relaxation.

During cyclobenzaprine addiction treatment, themedication will be slowly tapered off by a reduction of amounts over a certain time frame. This can help patients avoid the discomfort of withdrawing from cyclobenzaprine. Although Flexeril is allegedly not addictive, similar to how many antidepressants are not considered addictive, the drug is designed to induce relaxation in the body. People who abuse Flexeril do so to achieve a sense of calm and relaxing sleepiness. Additionally, at high doses, the drug can disrupt some neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to mental and physical impairment that is like being intoxicated. This type of treatment is generally less expensive and more accessible for many people.

Do you have more questions about cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) abuse?Reach out.

Narrowing our focus, the drug Cyclobenzaprine carries a potential risk for abuse by Americans of all ages. Users chase the cyclobenzaprine high and risk becoming addicted to the how often can you take a flexeril drug. Drug addiction can come in many forms from a variety of sources. Though some addictions start on the street, many begin within the home with prescription medications.

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This medication can also negatively interact with alcohol and a host of other medications to produce annoying to serious side effects. If you do not drink or take other medications, this may not seem like a dire warning. People often misuse this drug for a number of reasons because of the high created when the substance works with receptors in the brain. The “Cyclobenzaprine high” refers to the pleasurable and sometimes euphoric sensations that individuals might experience when misusing cyclobenzaprine, often for recreational purposes. This is when the withdrawal symptoms from Flexeril kick in and are at their worst. Always talk to your doctor before taking any medication, and make sure you follow their instructions carefully in order to get the best results.

Suitable Treatment for Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) Abuse

Additionally, extended-release formulations of cyclobenzaprine, such as Amrix, may come in different dosages, such as 7.5 mg. Extended-release formulations are designed to release the medication gradually over a longer period, providing sustained relief. It’s important to understand that using any medication for non-medical purposes, especially with the intention of achieving a high, can be dangerous and should be avoided. Results vary from person to person, depending on their unique condition and addiction severity. Suggest a doctor or counselor to them so that someone with experience can handle the situation. That said, it’s entirely possible to abuse and get addicted to cyclobenzaprine.

• But, in 2016, the use of muscle relaxant therapy tripled, leading to 24.7 million prescriptions a year.
• Not only do patients learn about their triggers, but they also reduce the chance for relapse.
• Follow the operator’s instructions carefully until help arrives.
• Flexeril is a short-term treatment for muscle pain and discomfort.
• Cyclobenzaprine belongs to a group of the central nervous system (CNS) depressants that decrease muscle activity, resulting in the desired muscle relaxant outcome.

Because of its therapeutic properties, many people become addicted to Flexeril. The drug depresses the central nervous system and creates desirable results, making it an even bigger problem for those who already have some kind of addiction. Over 2 million American adults are using muscle relaxants, while 94% choose to use just muscle relaxants instead of combining them with analgesics. Immediate medical attention is always needed in cases of overdose. The DEA reported that in 2010, there were over 10,000 mentions of cyclobenzaprine in calls to the American Association of Poison Control Centers.

These group meetings can be combined with AA or NA support group meetings as well. The cost of a sober living program will vary greatly, depending on the sober living home’s location, amenities, and recovery support services offered. The best way to determine the price of a sober living home is to contact an admissions representative directly for more information. Flexeril abuse has the capability to profoundly affect your physical and mental health.

It relieves skeletal muscle spasms without interfering with muscle function. Its chemical structure and how it works is related to the tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), an older class of medicines used to treat depression, nerve pain, migraine and other conditions. Like most any drug in existence, there is potential for drug addiction with cyclobenzaprine. While it is typically listed as non-addictive when used in conjunction with therapy and other medications, long-term use has shown moderate potential for addiction. Even so, cyclobenzaprine is not addictive in the same way that opioids are. While opioids produce a high that can lead to euphoria and make permanent changes to brain chemistry, cyclobenzaprine is addictive in a different way.

If patients are still experiencing pain after quitting Flexeril, the doctor may suggest over-the-counter pain medication. That includes NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) or any other drug with a very low potential for abuse. A sober living program that offers these types of support services will provide a well-rounded cyclobenzaprine treatment program for men and women in recovery. Although every cyclobenzaprine rehab program will be different, these are the building blocks for a comprehensive addiction treatment program. Non-pharmacologic pain management approaches may also supplement any solid aftercare strategy for those who began abusing Flexeril in association with injury or chronic pain. Dangerous consequences can come from Flexeril abuse, especially when mixed with other drugs like alcohol or opioids.