Cyclobenzaprine: A Lifesaver for Muscle Spasms and Pain Management

 

 Cyclobenzaprine

Cyclobenzaprine is a skeletal muscle relaxant, which is used in the treatment of muscle spasms and associated pain. It was first approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) in 1977. Cyclobenzaprine is a white to off-white crystalline powder, freely soluble in methanol, and ethanol, sparingly soluble in isopropanol, chloroform, and dichloromethane. The molecular weight of cyclobenzaprine is 275.4 gm/ml. The melting point of cyclobenzaprine is 216°C to 218°C (Hydrochloride salt).

Structure:

The molecular formula of Cyclobenzaprine is, [C­­­­­20H21N].

Cyclobenzaprine Structure

The IUPAC name of Cyclobenzaprine is, 3-(5H-dibenzo[a,d]cycloheptene-5-ylidene)-N,N-dimethyl-propan-1-amine.

Synthesis:

Cyclobenzaprine Synthesis

Mechanism of action:

Cyclobenzaprine is a skeletal muscle relaxant or NMJ (Neuromuscular Junction) blocker. It blocks the neurotransmission between two neurons at nicotinic receptors. Due to the blockage muscle spasm and associated pain is decreased.

Uses:

• It is mainly used in the treatment of muscle spasms and associated pain.
• In some cases, it is used to relieve pain and muscle stiffness associated with fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition.
• Rarely it is used in the treatment of tension headache or temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder.

Side-effects:

The overdose of cyclobenzaprine shows different types of side effects like,

1. Dry mouth.
2. Dizziness.
3. Blurred vision.
4. Digestive issues.
5. Drowsiness.
6. Fatigue.
7. Vomiting.
8. Skin rashes.
9. Itching.