Administration of Muscle Relaxants with Regard to Food and Timing

Medication-Specific Guidelines

The American Geriatrics Society recommends starting with a low dose of Baclofen and gradually increasing to minimize common side effects of dizziness, somnolence, and gastrointestinal symptoms 3
The American Geriatrics Society suggests that discontinuation of Baclofen after prolonged use requires a slow tapering period to avoid withdrawal symptoms 3, 4
The Mayo Clinic recommends holding Cyclobenzaprine on the day of surgery due to potential interactions with anesthetics and sedatives 1
The Mayo Clinic advises that Tizanidine should be taken consistently, including the day of surgical procedures, and may cause significant sedative and hypotensive effects, particularly in elderly patients 1
The Mayo Clinic recommends holding Carisoprodol on the day of operation and considering tapering off or switching to an alternative agent if time permits before surgical procedures 1
The Mayo Clinic suggests that Carisoprodol has substantial abuse potential and is classified as a controlled substance 1
The Mayo Clinic recommends holding Metaxalone on the day of operation and notes that it has multiple central nervous system adverse effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, and irritability 1
The Mayo Clinic advises that Methocarbamol should be held on the day of operation and can cause adverse effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, bradycardia, and hypotension 1

The American Geriatrics Society notes that the effects of muscle relaxants are nonspecific and not directly related to muscle relaxation 3, 4, 5
The American Geriatrics Society warns that many muscle relaxants may be associated with a greater risk for falls, particularly in older persons 3, 4, 5

Praxis Medical Insights recommends avoiding abrupt discontinuation of any muscle relaxant after prolonged use 2
The American Geriatrics Society and the Mayo Clinic advise avoiding abrupt discontinuation of any muscle relaxant after prolonged use 3, 1, 2
Praxis Medical Insights suggests monitoring for common side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, and gastrointestinal symptoms 2