College
College of Arts and Sciences
Mentor Information
Dr. Marlius Castillo
Description
Cyclobenzaprine, also known under the brand name Flexeril, is one of the most widely prescribed skeletal muscle relaxants globally. While treatment is typically limited to post-injury pain relief, long-term use has increased due to evidence of pain reduction in patients with chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia and temporomandibular joint disorder. Recently, cyclobenzaprine was found to be contraindicated for patients with bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. This is thought to result from its structural similarity to amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant. As a result, some patients utilizing cyclobenzaprine for pain management may experience acute manic episodes following administration. This study reviews manic reactions associated with cyclobenzaprine, tricyclic antidepressant contraindications in bipolar disorders, and alternative analgesic therapies. Our research goal is to identify screening methods for contraindications in patients requiring pain management when their medical history is unknown.
Cyclobenzaprine: Psychiatric Side Effects in Patients With Mood Disorders
Cyclobenzaprine, also known under the brand name Flexeril, is one of the most widely prescribed skeletal muscle relaxants globally. While treatment is typically limited to post-injury pain relief, long-term use has increased due to evidence of pain reduction in patients with chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia and temporomandibular joint disorder. Recently, cyclobenzaprine was found to be contraindicated for patients with bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. This is thought to result from its structural similarity to amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant. As a result, some patients utilizing cyclobenzaprine for pain management may experience acute manic episodes following administration. This study reviews manic reactions associated with cyclobenzaprine, tricyclic antidepressant contraindications in bipolar disorders, and alternative analgesic therapies. Our research goal is to identify screening methods for contraindications in patients requiring pain management when their medical history is unknown.
