Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/6/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of tizanidine can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of tizanidine use include:

• Drowsiness or sedation
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Runny nose
  
• Sore throat
  
• Fatigue or weakness
  
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
  
• Nervousness
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Constipation
  
• Vomiting
  
• Urination problems
  
• Muscle spasms
  
  

More severe side effects of tizanidine use can include:

• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
  
• Hallucinations or delusions
  
• Severe liver problems (such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain)
  
• Slow heartbeat
  
• Changes in vision
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat)
  
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
  
• Severe muscle weakness
  
  

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking tizanidine, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with tizanidine. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with tizanidine.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Other muscle relaxants
  
• Blood pressure medications
  
• Sleep aids or sedatives
  
• Pain medications (opioids)
  
• Antidepressants
  
• Alcohol or tobacco products
  
• Oral contraceptives
  
• Ciprofloxacin or fluvoxamine (due to significant interaction risks)
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• Liver disease
  
• Kidney disease
  
• Low blood pressure
  
• Heart rhythm disorders
  
• History of Long QT syndrome
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using tizanidine to assess potential risks and benefits.

Take tizanidine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The dose may need to be adjusted based on your response to the medication and any side effects you experience.

Tizanidine should be consistently taken with food or consistently without food.

Avoid alcohol while taking tizanidine, as it can increase the sedative effects of the medication and increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or drowsiness.

Do not abruptly stop taking tizanidine, as it can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Your healthcare provider will gradually decrease your dosage.

Store tizanidine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.

In case of a tizanidine overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, slowed heart rate, shallow breathing, fainting, or coma. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.