Norflex (Orphenadrine) for Fibromyalgia

Overview
Norflex is a prescription medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1959 for the treatment of muscle spasms. The drug name of Norflex is Orphenadrine. In cases of fibromyalgia, Norflex can reduce pain.

Norflex should be used with caution in people with a history of glaucoma, gastrointestinal or cardiac problems, myasthenia gravis (a muscle and nerve disease), or urinary retention. Norflex may not be appropriate for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Norflex is a muscle relaxant. It is believed that Norflex works by affecting the way nerves communicate.

How do I take it?
Norflex is taken twice a day, in the morning and evening. Norflex may be taken with or without food. Do not crush or split Norflex tablets; always swallow them whole. Norflex may also be given as an intramuscular injection every 12 hours.

Ask your doctor about using alcohol, barbiturates, or other central nervous system depressants while taking Norflex. These substances can intensify some side effects of Norflex.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking Norflex.

Results
In one clinical study, 85 people with fibromyalgia were given Orphenadrine (Norflex) for one year. At the end of the study, participants had experienced reductions in pain of up to 34 percent.

Side effects
Common side effects of Norflex include dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, vomiting, drowsiness, blurred vision, and lightheadedness.

In rare cases, Norflex may cause more serious side effects. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience mood changes, tremors, confusion, eye pain, hallucinations, confusion, fast or irregular heartbeat, or trouble urinating.

Norflex can also cause allergic reactions. Get medical help immediately if you experience difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, throat, eyes, lips or tongue.