Can You Get Addicted to Muscle Relaxers?
Muscle relaxers–which are prescribed for back pain, muscle spasms, and injuries–are among the kinds of medications that many may misuse or abuse. Understanding the risks before beginning these medications, signs of dependence, and available options for treatment can help you avoid issues with addiction or know when to reach out for help.
If you or a loved one could benefit from 12 Steps to Recovery, contact Myrtle Beach Recovery to learn about our comfortable residential setting.
What Are Muscle Relaxers?
Muscle relaxers (or muscle relaxants) are prescription drugs that help reduce muscle spasms and pain. They slow down the central nervous system, and can help you feel relaxed, drowsy, pain-free, or even mild euphoria. Commonly prescribed types include:
- Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)
- Carisoprodol (Soma)
- Methocarbamol (Robaxin)
- Tizanidine (Zanaflex)
- Diazepam (Valium) – also classified as a benzodiazepine
Can You Become Addicted to Muscle Relaxers?
Unfortunately, muscle relaxers are among the types of medications that you may become addicted to. While some might cause fewer problems than others, there is still a high risk for abuse if you develop a tolerance and need higher and higher doses to reach the same level of relief. Becoming physically dependent may lead to addiction for those prone to it. Some ways to avoid addiction to muscle relaxers include:
- Follow a doctor’s recommendation
- Only use them if they are prescribed
- Not mixing them with other substances
Signs of Muscle Relaxer Addiction
When you know the signs of addiction to muscle relaxers, you can reach out for help or find help for a loved one exhibiting these signs. Some common signs are:
- Taking more than the prescribed dose
- Seeking early refills from your doctor
- Feeling unable to stop using them
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms (anxiety, insomnia, muscle pain) when not taking them
- Using them for the “high” rather than a medical need
Recognizing the signs early is helpful, but so is understanding what comes next once you decide to get help. Many people start treatment unprepared. Our blog Mistakes to Avoid in Early Addiction Recovery can help you anticipate any hurdles.
How Myrtle Beach Recovery Can Help
If you are concerned that you have an addiction to muscle relaxers, then Myrtle Beach Recovery has plenty of options. We understand how quickly prescription misuse can turn into a real problem, and we know how difficult it can be to navigate. We can offer short-term rehab solutions that last 28 days. While here, you will be immersed in a 12-step program, one-on-one coaching, group therapy, and workshops in a calm, peaceful setting. If you are suffering, let us help you.
Get Help for Muscle Relaxant Addiction
If you or a loved one is struggling with muscle relaxer misuse or addiction, then you deserve help. Myrtle Beach Recovery can help you reclaim control and start thriving again. Contact us today to learn more about our 28-day rehab program in Myrtle Beach, SC, and how we might help you find freedom from active addiction.
