There are several factors to consider when choosing the best muscle relaxer for you. Though most of these drugs work in similar manners, you may find that one or another works best to alleviate your symptoms. You may also wish to consider possible side effects and pick a drug you are comfortable with. It is also important to know if there are any negative drug interactions that might occur with medications you are already on. If you are not comfortable using medication, there are some natural options you may wish to consider.
It may take some trial and error to determine which muscle relaxer will work best for you. All of these types of drugs, such as metaxalone, carisoprodol, and cyclobenzaprine, are designed to ease the tension in injured muscles and reduce spasms and pain. You may find, however, that one or another is more effective in your particular case.
Side effects are another consideration when choosing the best muscle relaxer. Problems like drowsiness or dizziness, nausea and vomiting, or headache are all possible with these types of drugs. You should discuss the possible side effects of the different muscle relaxers with your doctor to try and find one you can live with. If one drug causes significant side effects, you may wish to consider trying a different one.
If you are taking other prescription or over-the-counter medications, or even dietary supplements, it is important to let your doctor know so he or she can choose the best muscle relaxer to minimize negative interactions. Drugs like antidepressants, tranquilizers, and even alcohol can interact poorly with muscle relaxers, or one may exacerbate the side effects of another. Your doctor will need to carefully consider how all of the substances you are taking will impact each other before giving you a prescription.
You may be concerned about the side effects or possible drug interactions of taking prescription muscle relaxers, or may just not be comfortable taking drugs; if this is the case, then the best muscle relaxer for you may be an herbal or homeopathic remedy. Valerian, chamomile, and licorice are all herbs known for their muscle relaxing properties. Calcarea phosphorica is one homeopathic option known for its ability to ease pain and muscle tension; other possibilities include kali carb and arnica. You may need to try several different remedies before you find the one that works best for you; in some cases, a combination of herbs may work best.