Cyclobenzaprine & Alcohol (Interactions & Risks)

What is Cyclobenzaprine?

Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxer medication. It treats muscle spasms from certain musculoskeletal conditions, usually with sudden onset. It is taken orally by mouth in pill or tablet form.

Cyclobenzaprine is sold under the brand name Flexeril, among others. Avoid using this muscle relaxant for more than a few weeks. It has greater potential to cause adverse effects if taken longer than this.

Side Effects of Cyclobenzaprine

There are numerous side effects associated with taking cyclobenzaprine. These effects range from common and mild to rare and life-threatening. It is also possible to overdose on cyclobenzaprine, and there are acute symptoms that accompany this.

Common Side Effects of Cyclobenzaprine

Common side effects of cyclobenzaprine include:

• Blurry vision
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Drowsiness
• Cottonmouth (dry mouth)
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Constipation

Uncommon Side Effects of Cyclobenzaprine

Less common side effects of cyclobenzaprine include:

• Indigestion
• Abdominal pain
• Nervousness or excitement
• General unwell feeling
• Headache
• Muscle twitching or weakness

• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
• Elevated heart rate
• Speaking difficulties
• Shaking
• Insomnia
• Low back pain

Severe Side Effects of Cyclobenzaprine

Rare and more serious side effects of cyclobenzaprine include:

• Unsteadiness or clumsiness
• Confusion
• Loss of consciousness
• Depression
• Tinnitus
• Rash or hives
• Unusual thoughts or dreams
• Seizures
• Arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm)
• Heart attack
• Stroke

When Should You See a Doctor?

The symptoms of cyclobenzaprine overdose can be life-threatening. If you or someone else is experiencing any of the following symptoms, get medical help immediately:

• Seizures or convulsions
• Heart problems or heart attack
• Severe drowsiness
• Hot, flushed, or dry skin
• Significantly elevated heart rate
• Hallucinations
• Changes in body temperature
• Difficulty breathing
• Muscle stiffness
• Severe nervousness or restlessness

Is Cyclobenzaprine Addictive?

Cyclobenzaprine is generally considered non-addictive. There is, however, some evidence that cyclobenzaprine addiction may be possible. Although it has a lower euphoric high compared to many other drugs, especially painkillers, people still abuse cyclobenzaprine because of its relaxing effects. It is common for people to increase the prescribed dosage to experience amplified relaxation effects. 

Can You Drink Alcohol with Cyclobenzaprine?

It is not advised to drink alcohol with cyclobenzaprine. Doing so can be dangerous and potentially deadly. This is because both substances depress the central nervous system (CNS).

An interaction between cyclobenzaprine and alcohol can enhance the depressant effects of both substances. This can cause unwanted and often severe side effects that harm your health.

Side Effects of Cyclobenzaprine and Alcohol

Mixing alcohol and cyclobenzaprine can cause sedation or severe drowsiness. The risk of getting into an accident also increases while in this state.

Combining these substances may lead to:

• Overdose
• Seizures
• Dangerously low blood pressure
• Cardiac arrest
• Respiratory depression
• Death

The risk of overdose significantly increases when mixed with other drugs. This is particularly true with CNS depressants such as alcohol or benzodiazepines. Additionally, behavioral risks are associated with mixing alcohol and cyclobenzaprine. These include being arrested for driving under the influence.

Treatment for Cyclobenzaprine and Alcohol Abuse

Treatment for cyclobenzaprine and alcohol abuse can be done simultaneously or separately. But, it is usually best to treat them together. However, treatment can affect people differently, so it's best to find the right treatment option for you.

Cyclobenzaprine addiction treatment is more likely to involve a heavier component of psychological intervention. It is a less physically addictive substance than alcohol.

Available treatment option for cyclobenzaprine and alcohol abuse include:

• Behavioral therapies: Therapy techniques that explores the link between thought patterns and addiction
• Group therapies: A therapy session that involves multiple people to address common issues and concerns
• Individual counseling sessions: Provides support and guidance for those dealing with addiction or behavioral disorders.
• Dual-diagnosis treatment: A treatment program that addresses substance abuse disorders alongside co-occurring disorders
• 12-step program: A support group designed to help guide you through the recovery process and maintain sobriety