Tizanidine is not considered to be an addictive drug, but it can become so when doses are taken above the prescribed amount. Abuse of this medication includes crushing and snorting the tablets to achieve a “high.”

Abusing prescription pills like Zanaflex can lead to withdrawal symptoms when the doses are lowered or stopped. This is why it’s important to seek prescription pill detox under a medical professional.

Physical Dependence

Tizanidine (also known as Zanaflex) is a prescription medication that works to alleviate pain and reduce spasms by decreasing the activity of certain nerves in the spinal cord. It falls into a class of medications called alpha-2-adrenergic agonists, and it is most commonly prescribed to treat multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and other medical conditions associated with muscle spasms.

When taken as directed, tizanidine does not have the same addictive potential as opioids or benzodiazepines. However, it can cause physical dependence in some people who abuse the drug by taking higher than prescribed dosages for extended periods of time.

Abusing this type of medication can also cause withdrawal symptoms when consumption is abruptly stopped. It is important to work with a doctor or treatment center to gradually reduce the dosage until you are no longer using it. Doing this can help avoid the onset of withdrawal symptoms and ensure that you are safe during recovery.

Psychological Dependence

While Tizanidine does not have the same addictive potential as opioids or benzos, recreational drug users may still abuse it to achieve a high. This is because muscle relaxants are known to produce extreme sedation, which can produce a feeling of euphoria when combined with other drugs like cocaine or MDMA. Abusing this medication can also lead to long-term negative effects such as drowsiness, blurred vision, and runny nose.

Those who abuse this medication should never stop taking it without consulting their doctor first. It can cause withdrawal symptoms when abruptly stopped, which can be dangerous. Those with a history of addiction to this medication should seek a medically supervised detox to ensure safe withdrawal from the substance. In severe cases, a person will require inpatient treatment. Talk to your doctor about the best detox and rehab program for you. They will likely recommend a tapering schedule that will help prevent withdrawal symptoms when the time comes to quit.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Although tizanidine is not considered to be addictive, it can have withdrawal symptoms if taken for too long or in high doses. If you have been taking tizanidine for a prolonged period of time, it is important to talk with your doctor about a tapering down schedule. It is also important to talk with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Symptoms of Tizanidine withdrawal can be very severe, especially in people who have used the drug for a very long time or in high doses. These can include changes in heart rate and blood pressure, tremors, anxiety, muscle tenseness, confusion, and difficulty adjusting to life without the use of drugs.

Many of these symptoms can be managed with certain medications, such as alpha and beta blockers that help to control the body’s response to a sudden change in blood pressure or heart rate. It is also helpful to speak with a medical professional about your situation and any other health issues that you may have.

Treatment

Tizanidine is only available with a doctor’s prescription and should never be taken more than 35 mg in 24 hours. Overdose can cause serious side effects including irregular heartbeat, tremors, high blood pressure, and anxiety. It can also increase the levels of a liver enzyme which leads to hepatotoxicity.

Tizanidine acts on the central nervous system to suppress nerve impulses that lead to muscle spasms and tightness. It can also induce feelings of relaxation and drowsiness. It is often prescribed to alleviate the pain associated with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological disorders. Some people use Tizanidine recreationally for the sedative and depressant effects that it provides.

Abusing Tizanidine can cause addiction and withdrawal symptoms. It can also be dangerous if combined with other drugs that affect the brain and central nervous system, such as narcotics and certain anti-depressants. If you are experiencing symptoms of Tizanidine addiction, it is important to seek treatment from an accredited inpatient or outpatient program.