Norgesic

orphenadrine

Norgesic muscle relaxant is used, along with rest and physical therapy, to treat injuries and other painful muscular conditions. The mode of action of orphenadrine has not been clearly identified, but may be related to its analgesic properties. Norgesic medication do not directly relax tense skeletal muscles in man. However, this medicine does not take the place of rest, exercise, or other treatment that your doctor may recommend for your medical problem.

Norgesic muscle relaxer is used to treat muscle injuries, skeletal muscle tension and rigidity secondary to afflictions such prolapsed discs and degenerative soft tissue disease especially in the lower back, neck and joints and other causes of muscle spasms, to potentiate the action of opioid analgesics against moderate to severe neuropathic pain, and it is also used to treat Parkinson's disease.

Norgesic drug may reduce skeletal muscle spasm, possibly through an atropine-like central action on cerebral motor centers or on the medulla. The drug does not have direct skeletal muscle relaxant activity. It has been suggested that the drug may have analgesic activity that contributes to its effect in patients with skeletal muscle spasm. Orphenadrine also exhibits postganglionic anticholinergic effects and some antihistaminic and local anesthetic action. The antihistaminic activity of orphenadrine is less than that of diphenhydramine; in contrast to the sedative effect of diphenhydramine, orphenadrine produces slight CNS stimulation.

How to take
Take this medication with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking this drug. Norgesic recommended dosage for adults is 1 to 2 tablets 3 to 4 times daily, one in the morning and one in the evening. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take it more often, or take it for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, but the risk of side effects may be increased.

Take the missed dose of Norgesic as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this muscle relaxant.

Side effects
Stomach upset, headache, blurred vision, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, dry mouth, constipation, difficult urination may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Norgesic muscle relaxant and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives), an irregular or a very fast heartbeat, confusion, hallucinations or abnormal behavior (red, black, or bloody stools, or blood in vomit).