Tizanidine is an oral agent used to reduce muscle tone associated with spasticity related to cerebral or spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, or other spastic disorders. The imidazoline chemical structure of tizanidine is related to that of clonidine and other central-acting alpha2-adrenergic agonists. Tizanidine significantly reduces muscle tone and frequency of spasms in patients with spasticity due to spinal cord injury; but does not reduce muscle strength. Both tizanidine and baclofen (see separate monograph) inhibit spinal interneuron firing, however, tizanidine's effects are mediated by alpha2-receptors whereas baclofen acts directly on neuronal membrane polarization. The efficacy of tizanidine in the treatment of spasticity is comparable to baclofen. Tizanidine produces more drowsiness and sedation than baclofen, but tizanidine is not associated with the muscle weakness which may occur with baclofen therapy. Tizanidine was approved by the FDA on December 3, 1996.
General Administration Information
For storage information, see the specific product information within the How Supplied section.
Route-Specific Administration
Oral Administration
-Tizanidine should be administered consistently with or without food. Once the formulation has been selected and the decision has been made whether to take with or without food, this regimen should not be altered. Instruct patients that changing whether tizanidine is taken with or without food may result in increased adverse events or delayed or more rapid onset of action.
Adverse effects due to tizanidine are frequently are dose-related and generally correlate with the pharmacological properties of tizanidine. Asthenia (a dose-related effect defined as weakness, fatigue and/or tiredness) occurred in 41-78% of tizanidine recipients during multiple and single dose placebo-controlled studies, compared to 16-40% among placebo recipients. Asthenia led to drug discontinuation in 3% of patients. Asthenia was rated by the patients to be mild-moderate (75%) or severe (25%). Due to dose-related adverse effects, the dose should be titrated to the lowest tolerated dose which controls spasticity. Other systemic effects noted across all clinical studies of tizanidine include influenza (3%), and unspecified infection (6%).
Tizanidine can produce hypotension; syncope has been reported in the postmarketing setting. Dose-related hypotension occurred relatively frequently in patients treated with single oral doses of 8 mg (16%) or 16 mg (33%) of tizanidine (0% placebo) in clinical studies. Hypotension was also more severe in the 16 mg group. In a single dose study where blood pressure was monitored closely after dosing, two-thirds of patients treated with 8 mg of tizanidine had a 20% reduction in either the diastolic or systolic blood pressure. The reduction was seen within 1 hour after dosing, peaked 2 to 3 hours after dosing and was associated, at times, with sinus bradycardia, orthostatic hypotension, lightheadedness, and rarely syncope. The chance of significant hypotension may be minimized by titration of the dose and by monitoring for signs and symptoms of orthostatic effects or hypotension. Bradycardia occurred in 2% and 10% of patients receiving 8 mg or 16 mg, respectively (0% placebo). Postmarketing cases of QT prolongation associated with the use of tizanidine have been reported.
Xerostomia is frequently associated with tizanidine, occurring in 49-88% of patients during multiple and single dose clinical studies. The effect is dose-related, and led to drug discontinuation in 3% of patients. Constipation and vomiting occurred in 4% and 3% of patients, respectively.
Drowsiness (somnolence) and dizziness are common dose-related adverse effects associated with tizanidine use, occurring in 48-92% and 16-45% of patients, respectively, during single and multiple dose clinical studies. Drowsiness led to drug discontinuation in 3% of patients in multiple dose studies, while dizziness contributed to discontinuation in 2% of patients. Drowsiness peaked 1.5 hours after dosing; the prevalence of drowsiness or sedation peaked after the first week of titration and then remained stable during maintenance phases of multiple dose studies. Excitability (nervousness), dyskinesia, and unspecified speech disorders occurred in 3% of tizanidine recipients in multiple dose studies. Tizanidine use has been associated with hallucinations. In two controlled clinical studies, formed/visual hallucinations or delusions have been reported within the first 6 weeks of therapy in 5 of 170 tizanidine-treated patients (3%). These 5 cases occurred within the first 6 weeks. Most of the patients were aware that the events were unreal. One patient developed psychosis in association with hallucinations. Consider discontinuing tizanidine in patients who develop hallucinations. Depression, convulsions, paresthesias and tremor have been reported during post-marketing use of tizanidine.
Dermatological adverse events may occur with tizanidine. Stevens-Johnson syndrome, exfoliative dermatitis, and rash (unspecified) have been reported during post-marketing use.
Tizanidine occasionally causes hepatotoxicity, most often hepatocellular in type. Monitoring of aminotransferase levels is recommended at baseline and 1 month after maximum dose is achieved, or if hepatic injury is suspected. In placebo-controlled, multiple dose studies, abnormal liver function tests were reported in 6% of those who took tizanidine compared with 2% of those who took placebo. Hepatitis has been reported during post-marketing use of tizanidine. In occasional symptomatic cases, nausea, vomiting, anorexia and jaundice have been reported. Based upon postmarketing experience, death associated with liver failure has been a rare occurrence reported in patients treated with tizanidine. One case report describes elevated hepatic enzymes during therapy with 36 mg/day tizanidine, which improved upon drug discontinuation and recurred upon drug re-challenge. In post-marketing experience, three deaths associated with liver failure have been reported in patients treated with tizanidine. In one case, a 49 year-old male developed jaundice and liver enlargement following 2 months of tizanidine treatment, primarily at 6 mg three times daily. A liver biopsy showed multilobular hepatic necrosis without eosinophilic infiltration. Treatment was discontinued and the patient died in hepatic coma 10 days later; other explanations for hepatotoxicity were ruled out. In the two other cases, patients were taking other drugs with known potential for hepatotoxicity. One patient, treated with tizanidine at a dose of 4 mg/day, was also on carbamazepine when he developed cholestatic jaundice after 2 months of treatment; this patient died with pneumonia about 20 days later. Another patient, treated with tizanidine for 11 days, and was also treated with dantrolene for about 2 weeks prior to developing fatal fulminant hepatic failure.
Hematological and lymphatic adverse reactions reported in < 1% of patients during tizanidine clinical trials include hypercholesterolemia, anemia, hyperlipidemia, leukopenia, leukocytosis, thrombocythemia, and thrombocytopenia.
Arthralgia has been reported during post-marketing use of tizanidine.
Adverse respiratory effects reported during tizanidine use in multiple dose controlled trials include rhinitis (3%) and pharyngitis (3%).
Blurred vision occurred in 3% of patients with tizanidine use during clinical studies.
Urinary tract infections (cystitis) were observed in up to 10% of tizanidine-treated patients in clinical studies, and increased urinary frequency was reported in 3%.
Tizanidine is closely related to clonidine, which is often abused in combination with opiate agonists and is known to cause symptoms of rebound upon abrupt discontinuation. Three cases of rebound symptoms on sudden discontinuation of tizanidine have been reported. The case reports suggest that these patients were also misusing opiate agonists. Withdrawal symptoms included hypertension, tachycardia, hypertonia, tremor, and anxiety. As with clonidine, withdrawal is expected to be more likely in cases where high doses are used, especially for prolonged periods.
Anaphylactoid reactions have been reported during post-marketing use of tizanidine. Instruct patients to discontinue tizanidine seek immediate medical attention if they experience signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis including respiratory compromise, urticaria, and angioedema of the throat and tongue.
Tizanidine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to tizanidine or its ingredients.
Tizanidine should be used with caution where spasticity is utilized to obtain increased function or to sustain posture and balance during movement.
Tizanidine is a central-acting alpha2-adrenergic agonist which is structurally and pharmacologically related to clonidine. Although tizanidine has a lower propensity to lower blood pressure than clonidine (2-10% of the antihypertensive potency in animal models), it can result in significant hypotension in some patients, especially with higher doses. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients at risk for developing hypotension including patients who are receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy (see Drug Interactions).
Tizanidine should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment (CrCl < 25 ml/min) or renal failure, as clearance is reduced by more than 50%. In these patients, during titration, the individual doses should be reduced. If higher doses are required, individual doses should be increased rather than dosing frequency. These patients should be monitored closely for the onset or increase in severity of the common adverse events (dry mouth, somnolence, asthenia and dizziness) as potential indicators of excessive overdose.
Due to the potential for hepatotoxicity, monitoring of aminotransferase levels is recommended recommended at baseline and 1 month after maximum dose is achieved, or if hepatic injury is suspected. Tizanidine should be used with caution in patients with hepatic impairment or hepatic disease. Tizanidine has not been studied in patients with hepatic disease.
Tizanidine can cause drowsiness and sedation. Patients receiving tizanidine should be advised to avoid driving or operating machinery until the effects of the drug are known.
Tizanidine use has been associated with hallucinations; tizanidine should be used with caution in patients with psychosis.
Abrupt discontinuation of tizanidine may result in withdrawal adverse reactions including rebound hypertension, tachycardia, and hypertonia. To minimize the risk of withdrawal, particularly in patients who have been receiving high doses for long periods of time (e.g., 20 to 28 mg/day for 9 weeks or longer) or who may be on concomitant treatment with narcotics, decrease the dose slowly (2 to 4 mg/day).
There are no adequate or well-controlled studies of tizanidine in human pregnancy to inform regarding drug-associated fetal risks. Tizanidine should be given to pregnant women only if clearly needed. Reproduction studies performed in rats at a dose of 3 mg (base)/kg, equal to the maximum recommended human dose (MHRD) on a mg/m2 basis, and in rabbits at 30 mg (base)/kg, 16 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis, did not show evidence of teratogenicity. Tizanidine at doses that are equal to and up to 8 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis increased gestation duration in rats. Prenatal and postnatal pup loss was increased and developmental retardation occurred. Post-implantation loss was increased in rabbits at doses of 1 mg (base)/kg or greater, equal to or greater than 0.5 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis. The effect of tizanidine on labor and obstetric delivery in humans is unknown.
Because of the possibility for serious adverse events in a nursing infant (e.g., sedation, hypotension, hepatic injury, and hallucinations/psychotic-like symptoms), avoid the use of tizanidine during breast-feeding. As a lipid soluble drug, it might be expected to pass into breast milk, but the effect of this exposure is not known. Consider the benefits of breast-feeding, the risk of potential infant drug exposure, and the risk of an untreated or inadequately treated condition. If a breast-feeding infant experiences an adverse effect related to a maternally ingested drug, healthcare providers are encouraged to report the adverse effect to the FDA.
Tizanidine should be used with caution and close monitoring in geriatric patients because the older adult is more at risk for reduced clearance and side effects than younger adults. During dose titration, reduce individual doses for the older adult. Geriatric patients should be monitored closely for the onset or increase in severity of the common adverse events (e.g., dry mouth, somnolence, asthenia and dizziness) as potential indicators of excessive dosage. Tizanidine is substantially excreted by the kidney, and younger adults exhibit renal drug clearance rates that are 4-times faster than those of the older adult. In elderly patients with renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 25 mL/minute), tizanidine clearance is reduced by more than 50% compared to healthy geriatric subjects.
For the treatment of spasticity:
NOTE: Because of its short duration, reserve tizanidine for activities and times when spasticity control is most important. Use tizanidine with caution when spasticity is beneficial to obtain increased function or to sustain posture and balance during movement.
Oral dosage:
Adults: 2 mg PO every 6 to 8 hours as needed up to a maximum of 6 mg in 24 hours, initially. May increase the dose by 2 to 4 mg/dose every 1 to 4 days until a satisfactory reduction of muscle tone is achieved. Max: 36 mg/day. Single doses more than 16 mg have not been studied. To discontinue, reduce dose by 2 to 4 mg/day, particularly in persons who have been receiving high doses for long periods (e.g., 20 to 36 mg/day for 9 weeks or more) or who are receiving concomitant opioids, to minimize the risk of withdrawal and rebound hypertension, tachycardia, and hypertonia.
Maximum Dosage Limits:
-Adults
36 mg/day PO.
-Elderly
36 mg/day PO. Maximum doses of tizanidine should be used cautiously in elderly patients; drug clearance may be substantially decreased.
-Adolescents
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
-Children
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Patients with Hepatic Impairment Dosing
Because of potential hepatotoxicity, tizanidine should be used with caution in patients with any hepatic impairment. Individual doses should be reduced during dose titration. If higher doses are required, increase individual doses rather than dosing frequency.
Patients with Renal Impairment Dosing
CrCl < 25 ml/min: Individual doses should be reduced during dose titration. If higher doses are required, increase individual doses rather than dosing frequency. Monitor closely for side effects; tizanidine clearance is reduced > 50% in renally impaired patients.
Intermittent hemodialysis
It is not known whether tizanidine is removed by hemodialysis; it appears that no supplemental dosage is needed following hemodialysis.
*non-FDA-approved indication
Acebutolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Acetaminophen: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin; Diphenhydramine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Caffeine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Dihydrocodeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Pyrilamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine : (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Doxylamine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of doxylamine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Diphenhydramine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Ibuprofen: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Reduce the initial oxycodone dosage by one-third to one-half when using the extended-release tablets. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Pamabrom; Pyrilamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acetaminophen; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Acrivastine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Acyclovir: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and acyclovir as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and acyclovir is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Alfentanil: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If an opiate agonist is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use a lower initial dose of the opiate and titrate to clinical response. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Aliskiren: (Moderate) Aliskiren can enhance the effects of tizanidine on blood pressure if given concomitantly. This additive effect may be desirable, but dosages must be adjusted accordingly. Blood pressure and electrolytes should be routinely monitored in patients receiving aliskiren.
Aliskiren; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Aliskiren can enhance the effects of tizanidine on blood pressure if given concomitantly. This additive effect may be desirable, but dosages must be adjusted accordingly. Blood pressure and electrolytes should be routinely monitored in patients receiving aliskiren. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Allopurinol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and allopurinol as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and allopurinol is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Alprazolam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Ambrisentan: (Moderate) Although no specific interactions have been documented, ambrisentan has vasodilatory effects and may contribute additive hypotensive effects when given with other antihypertensive agents. Patients receiving ambrisentan in combination with other antihypertensive agents should be monitored for decreases in blood pressure.
Amiloride: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Amiloride; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Amiodarone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and amiodarone as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and amiodarone is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Amlodipine; Benazepril: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Amlodipine; Olmesartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Amlodipine; Valsartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Amlodipine; Valsartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Amobarbital: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Anagrelide: (Moderate) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and anagrelide as increased serum concentrations of tizanidine may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with the 2 mg dose and increase daily in 2 to 4 mg increments based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate; anagrelide demonstrates some limited inhibitory activity towards CYP1A2 which may present a theoretical potential for interaction.
Angiotensin II receptor antagonists: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Anxiolytics; Sedatives; and Hypnotics: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of tizanidine with anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression. A reduction in the dose of these medications may be considered to minimize additive sedative effects, if they occur. With hypnotic medications, the risk of next-day psychomotor impairment is increased during co-administration of other CNS depressants, which may decrease the ability to perform tasks requiring full mental alertness such as driving.
Aripiprazole: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of aripiprazole and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Aspirin, ASA; Butalbital; Caffeine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Aspirin, ASA; Carisoprodol; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Aspirin, ASA; Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Reduce the initial oxycodone dosage by one-third to one-half when using the extended-release tablets.
Atenolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Atenolol; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Azelastine: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of azelastine and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Azelastine; Fluticasone: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of azelastine and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Azilsartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Azilsartan; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Baclofen: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of baclofen and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Barbiturates: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Belladonna; Opium: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause respiratory depression, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid agonists with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Consider prescribing naloxone for emergency treatment of opioid overdose.
Benazepril: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Benazepril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Benzhydrocodone; Acetaminophen: (Major) Concomitant use of benzhydrocodone with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Benzodiazepines: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Beta-adrenergic blockers: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Betaxolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Bisoprolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Bisoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Brimonidine; Timolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Brompheniramine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Brompheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Brompheniramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Brompheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Brompheniramine; Pseudoephedrine; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Bumetanide: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant loop diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Buprenorphine: (Major) Concomitant use of buprenorphine and tizanidine can increase the risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant use of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor patients closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.
Buprenorphine; Naloxone: (Major) Concomitant use of buprenorphine and tizanidine can increase the risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant use of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor patients closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen; Caffeine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Butalbital; Aspirin; Caffeine; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Butorphanol: (Moderate) Concomitant use of butorphanol with other CNS depressants, such as tizanidine, can potentiate the effects of butorphanol on respiratory depression, CNS depression, and sedation.
Calcium Carbonate; Famotidine; Magnesium Hydroxide: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and famotidine as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and famotidine is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Candesartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Candesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Cannabidiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and cannabidiol as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and cannabidiol is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Capmatinib: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and capmatinib as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and capmatinib is a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Captopril: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Captopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Carbidopa; Levodopa; Entacapone: (Moderate) COMT inhibitors should be given cautiously with other agents that cause CNS depression, such as tizanidine, due to the possibility of additive sedation. COMT inhibitors have also been associated with sudden sleep onset during activities of daily living such as driving, which has resulted in accidents in some cases. Prescribers should re-assess patients for drowsiness or sleepiness regularly throughout treatment, especially since events may occur well after the start of treatment. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or other tasks requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them.
Carbinoxamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Carteolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Carvedilol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Celecoxib; Tramadol: (Major) Concomitant use of tramadol with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Cenobamate: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of cenobamate and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Central-acting adrenergic agents: (Major) The use of tizanidine with other alpha 2-adrenergic agonists (such as central-acting adrenergic agonist antihypertensive agents) should be avoided because hypotensive effects may be cumulative. Tizanidine is an alpha 2-adrenergic agonist that can produce hypotension. Syncope has been reported in the postmarketing setting.
Chlophedianol; Dexchlorpheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorcyclizine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlordiazepoxide: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Chlordiazepoxide; Amitriptyline: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Chlordiazepoxide; Clidinium: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Chlorothiazide: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Chlorpheniramine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine. (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Ibuprofen; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorpheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Cimetidine: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and cimetidine as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and cimetidine is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Ciprofloxacin: (Contraindicated) Concomitant use of tizanidine and ciprofloxacin is contraindicated due to the risk of tizanidine toxicity, including clinically significant hypotension, bradycardia, and sedation. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and ciprofloxacin is a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor. After a single 4 mg tizanidine dose, Cmax and AUC increased by 7-fold and 10-fold, respectively, when administered with ciprofloxacin during pharmacokinetic trials.
Clemastine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Clonazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Clonidine: (Major) The use of tizanidine with other alpha 2-adrenergic agonists (such as central-acting adrenergic agonist antihypertensive agents) should be avoided because hypotensive effects may be cumulative. Tizanidine is an alpha 2-adrenergic agonist that can produce hypotension. Syncope has been reported in the postmarketing setting.
Clorazepate: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Codeine; Guaifenesin: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Codeine; Guaifenesin; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Codeine; Phenylephrine; Promethazine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Codeine; Promethazine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
COMT inhibitors: (Moderate) COMT inhibitors should be given cautiously with other agents that cause CNS depression, such as tizanidine, due to the possibility of additive sedation. COMT inhibitors have also been associated with sudden sleep onset during activities of daily living such as driving, which has resulted in accidents in some cases. Prescribers should re-assess patients for drowsiness or sleepiness regularly throughout treatment, especially since events may occur well after the start of treatment. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or other tasks requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them.
Cyproheptadine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Desogestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Deutetrabenazine: (Moderate) Use tizanidine and deutetrabenazine together with caution due to additive CNS depression. Monitor patients for symptoms of excess sedation.
Dexchlorpheniramine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Dexchlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Dexmedetomidine: (Moderate) Due to the anesthetic effects of dexmedetomidine, concurrent use with other CNS depressants, such as skeletal muscle relaxants, could result in additive sedative effects and possibly prolong recovery from anesthesia.
Dextromethorphan; Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Diazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Diazoxide: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Dienogest; Estradiol valerate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Difelikefalin: (Moderate) Monitor for dizziness, somnolence, mental status changes, and gait disturbances if concomitant use of difelikefalin with CNS depressants is necessary. Concomitant use may increase the risk for these adverse reactions.
Dimenhydrinate: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of dimenhydrinate and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Diphenhydramine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Diphenhydramine; Ibuprofen: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Diphenhydramine; Naproxen: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of diphenhydramine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Dorzolamide; Timolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Doxazosin: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Doxylamine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of doxylamine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Doxylamine; Pyridoxine: (Moderate) Monitor for unusual drowsiness and sedation during coadministration of doxylamine and tizanidine due to the risk for additive CNS depression.
Dronabinol: (Moderate) Concomitant use of dronabinol with other CNS depressants, like tizanidine, can potentiate the effects of dronabinol on respiratory depression.
Drospirenone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Drospirenone; Estetrol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Drospirenone; Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Drospirenone; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Drospirenone; Ethinyl Estradiol; Levomefolate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Elagolix; Estradiol; Norethindrone acetate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Emapalumab: (Moderate) Monitor for decreased efficacy of tizanidine and adjust the dose as needed during coadministration with emapalumab. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate with a narrow therapeutic range. Emapalumab may normalize CYP450 activity, which may decrease the efficacy of drugs that are CYP450 substrates due to increased metabolism.
Enalapril, Enalaprilat: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Enalapril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Enasidenib: (Contraindicated) Concomitant use of tizanidine and enasidenib is contraindicated due to the risk of tizanidine toxicity, including clinically significant hypotension, bradycardia, and sedation. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and enasidenib is a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with other strong CYP1A2 inhibitors increased the exposure of tizanidine by 10 and 33-fold.
Entacapone: (Moderate) COMT inhibitors should be given cautiously with other agents that cause CNS depression, such as tizanidine, due to the possibility of additive sedation. COMT inhibitors have also been associated with sudden sleep onset during activities of daily living such as driving, which has resulted in accidents in some cases. Prescribers should re-assess patients for drowsiness or sleepiness regularly throughout treatment, especially since events may occur well after the start of treatment. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or other tasks requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them.
Eplerenone: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Epoprostenol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Eprosartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Eprosartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Esketamine: (Major) Closely monitor patients receiving esketamine and skeletal muscle relaxants for sedation and other CNS depressant effects. Patients who receive a dose of esketamine should not drive or engage in other activities requiring alertness until the next day after a restful sleep.
Esmolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Estazolam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Estradiol; Levonorgestrel: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Estradiol; Norethindrone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Estradiol; Norgestimate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Eszopiclone: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of tizanidine with anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression. A reduction in the dose of these medications may be considered to minimize additive sedative effects, if they occur. With hypnotic medications, the risk of next-day psychomotor impairment is increased during co-administration of other CNS depressants, which may decrease the ability to perform tasks requiring full mental alertness such as driving.
Ethacrynic Acid: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant loop diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Ethanol: (Major) Advise patients to avoid alcohol-containing beverages while taking tizanidine. Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants can cause additive CNS depression and hypotension. Alcohol also increases the overall amount of drug in the bloodstream after a dose of tizanidine. Alcohol increases the AUC and Cmax of tizanidine by about 20% and 15%, respectively, resulting in an increase in side effects associated with tizanidine.
Ethinyl Estradiol; Norelgestromin: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Ethinyl Estradiol; Norethindrone Acetate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Ethinyl Estradiol; Norgestrel: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Ethynodiol Diacetate; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Etonogestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Famotidine: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and famotidine as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and famotidine is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Fenfluramine: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of fenfluramine and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Fenoldopam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Fentanyl: (Major) Concomitant use of fentanyl with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Fexinidazole: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and fexinidazole as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and fexinidazole is a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Fluphenazine: (Moderate) Use tizanidine and fluphenazine together with caution due to additive CNS depression. Monitor patients for symptoms of excess sedation.
Flurazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Fluvoxamine: (Contraindicated) Concomitant use of tizanidine and fluvoxamine is contraindicated due to the risk of tizanidine toxicity, including clinically significant hypotension, bradycardia, and sedation. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and fluvoxamine is a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor. After a single 4 mg tizanidine dose, Cmax, AUC, and half-life increased by 12-fold, 33--fold, and 3-fold, respectively, when administered with fluvoxamine during pharmacokinetic trials.
Food: (Major) Advise patients to avoid cannabis use while taking CNS depressants due to the risk for additive CNS depression and potential for other cognitive adverse reactions.
Fosinopril: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Fosinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Fosphenytoin: (Minor) One case of increased phenytoin serum concentrations and associated drowsiness has been reported with the addition of tizanidine therapy. The mechanism and significance of this potential interaction with phenytoin or fosphenytoin is unknown.
Furosemide: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant loop diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Gabapentin: (Major) Initiate gabapentin at the lowest recommended dose and monitor patients for symptoms of sedation and somnolence during coadministration of gabapentin and tizanidine. Concomitant use of gabapentin with tizanidine may cause additive CNS depression. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of excessive CNS depression.
Givosiran: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of givosiran and tizanidine due to the risk of increased tizanidine-related adverse reactions. If use is necessary, consider decreasing the tizanidine dose. Tizanidine is a sensitive CYP1A2 substrate. Givosiran may moderately reduce hepatic CYP1A2 enzyme activity because of its pharmacological effects on the hepatic heme biosynthesis pathway.
Guanfacine: (Major) The use of tizanidine with other alpha 2-adrenergic agonists (such as central-acting adrenergic agonist antihypertensive agents) should be avoided because hypotensive effects may be cumulative. Tizanidine is an alpha 2-adrenergic agonist that can produce hypotension. Syncope has been reported in the postmarketing setting.
Homatropine; Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Hydralazine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Hydralazine; Isosorbide Dinitrate, ISDN: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Moexipril: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Hydrocodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Hydrocodone; Ibuprofen: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Avoid prescribing opioid cough medication in patients taking tizanidine.
Hydromorphone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations.
Hydroxyzine: (Major) Use tizanidine and hydroxyzine together with caution due to additive CNS depression. Consider tizanidine dosage reduction and monitor patients for symptoms of excess sedation.
Ibuprofen; Famotidine: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and famotidine as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and famotidine is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Ibuprofen; Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Reduce the initial oxycodone dosage by one-third to one-half when using the extended-release tablets.
Iloprost: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Indapamide: (Moderate) The effects of indapamide may be additive when administered with other antihypertensive agents or diuretics. This may be desirable, but occasionally orthostatic hypotension may occur. Dosages should be adjusted based on clinical response.
Irbesartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Irbesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Labetalol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Lasmiditan: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of lasmiditan and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Leflunomide: (Moderate) Closely monitor for reduced efficacy of tizanidine if coadministered with leflunomide. An adjustment of the tizanidine dose may be required. Following oral administration, leflunomide is metabolized to an active metabolite, teriflunomide, which is responsible for essentially all of leflunomide's in vivo activity. In vivo data suggest that teriflunomide is a weak inducer of CYP1A2. Coadministration of teriflunomide with CYP1A2 substrates, such as tizanidine, may decrease tizanidine exposure and lead to a reduction in efficacy.
Lemborexant: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of lemborexant and tizanidine. Dosage adjustments of lemborexant and tizanidine may be necessary when administered together because of potentially additive CNS effects. The risk of next-day impairment, including impaired driving, is increased if lemborexant is taken with other CNS depressants.
Leniolisib: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and leniolisib as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and leniolisib is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Leuprolide; Norethindrone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Levobunolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Levonorgestrel: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Levonorgestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Levonorgestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous Bisglycinate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Levonorgestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous Fumarate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Levorphanol: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with methocarbamol may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with methocarbamol to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Reduce the initial levorphanol dosage by 50% or more.
Lisinopril: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Lisinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Lofexidine: (Moderate) Use tizanidine and lofexidine together with caution due to additive CNS depression. Monitor patients for symptoms of excess sedation and hypotension.
Loop diuretics: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant loop diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Lorazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Losartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Losartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Loxapine: (Moderate) Loxapine is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. The concurrent use of loxapine with other CNS depressants (e.g., muscle relaxants such as tizanidine) can increase the risk of respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and syncope. Therefore, consider reducing the dose of CNS depressants if used concomitantly with loxapine.
Lumateperone: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of lumateperone and tizanidine. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression.
Lurasidone: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants can cause additive CNS depression. These agents include but are not limited to: antipsychotics.
Mecamylamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Meclizine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Meperidine: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations.
Meprobamate: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of tizanidine with anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression. A reduction in the dose of these medications may be considered to minimize additive sedative effects, if they occur. With hypnotic medications, the risk of next-day psychomotor impairment is increased during co-administration of other CNS depressants, which may decrease the ability to perform tasks requiring full mental alertness such as driving.
Methadone: (Major) Concomitant use of methadone with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Methohexital: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Methscopolamine: (Moderate) CNS depression can be increased when methscopolamine is combined with other CNS depressants such as skeletal muscle relaxants.
Methyldopa: (Major) The use of tizanidine with other alpha 2-adrenergic agonists (such as central-acting adrenergic agonist antihypertensive agents) should be avoided because hypotensive effects may be cumulative. Tizanidine is an alpha 2-adrenergic agonist that can produce hypotension. Syncope has been reported in the postmarketing setting.
Metolazone: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Metoprolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Metoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Mexiletine: (Major) Tizanidine is primarily metabolized by CYP1A2. If possible, avoid the concurrent use of tizanidine with other CYP1A2 inhibitors, such as mexiletine, as concurrent use could lead to substantial increases in tizanidine blood concentrations. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, initiate tizanidine therapy with the 2 mg dose and increase in 2 to 4 mg increments daily based on patient response to therapy. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occur.
Midazolam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Minoxidil: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Moexipril: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Molindone: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and antipsychotics like molindone can cause additive CNS depression.
Morphine: (Major) Concomitant use of morphine with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. For extended-release morphine tablets (MS Contin and Morphabond), start with 15 mg every 12 hours. Morphine; naltrexone should be initiated at 1/3 to 1/2 the recommended starting dosage. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Morphine; Naltrexone: (Major) Concomitant use of morphine with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. For extended-release morphine tablets (MS Contin and Morphabond), start with 15 mg every 12 hours. Morphine; naltrexone should be initiated at 1/3 to 1/2 the recommended starting dosage. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Nabilone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of nabilone with other CNS depressants, like tizanidine, can potentiate the effects of nabilone on CNS and respiratory depression.
Nadolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Nalbuphine: (Major) Concomitant use of nalbuphine with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of nalbuphine with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations.
Nebivolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Nebivolol; Valsartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Nitroprusside: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Norethindrone Acetate; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous fumarate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Norethindrone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Norethindrone; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Norethindrone; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous fumarate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Norgestimate; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Norgestrel: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Obeticholic Acid: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and obeticholic acid as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and obeticholic acid is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Oliceridine: (Major) Concomitant use of oliceridine with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of oliceridine with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect.
Olmesartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Olmesartan; Amlodipine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Olmesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Opicapone: (Moderate) COMT inhibitors should be given cautiously with other agents that cause CNS depression, such as tizanidine, due to the possibility of additive sedation. COMT inhibitors have also been associated with sudden sleep onset during activities of daily living such as driving, which has resulted in accidents in some cases. Prescribers should re-assess patients for drowsiness or sleepiness regularly throughout treatment, especially since events may occur well after the start of treatment. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or other tasks requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them.
Oral Contraceptives: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Osilodrostat: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and osilodrostat as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and osilodrostat is a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Oxazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Reduce the initial oxycodone dosage by one-third to one-half when using the extended-release tablets.
Oxymorphone: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Reduce the initial oxymorphone dosage by one-third to one-half.
Pacritinib: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and pacritinib as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg per day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and pacritinib is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: (Major) Tizanidine is primarily metabolized by CYP1A2. The presystemic availability of tizanidine has been shown to be substantially increased by coadministration with CYP1A2 inhibitors, such as peginterferon alfa-2b. Average increases in tizanidine AUC of 10-fold and 33-fold have been reported following administration of strong CYP1A2 inhibitors. These increases in tizanidine concentrations have been associated with significant hypotensive and sedative effects. The use of potent CYP1A2 inhibitors with tizanidine is contraindicated. If possible, avoid the concurrent use of tizanidine with other CYP1A2 inhibitors, as concurrent use could lead to substantial increases in tizanidine blood concentrations. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occur.
Pentazocine; Naloxone: (Major) Concomitant use of pentazocine with tizanidine may cause respiratory depression, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of pentazocine with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Consider prescribing naloxone for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose.
Pentobarbital: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Perindopril: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Perindopril; Amlodipine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Phenobarbital: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Phenobarbital; Hyoscyamine; Atropine; Scopolamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Phenoxybenzamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Phentolamine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Phenytoin: (Minor) One case of increased phenytoin serum concentrations and associated drowsiness has been reported with the addition of tizanidine therapy. The mechanism and significance of this potential interaction with phenytoin is unknown.
Pindolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Potassium-sparing diuretics: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Prazosin: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Pregabalin: (Major) Initiate pregabalin at the lowest recommended dose and monitor patients for symptoms of sedation and somnolence during coadministration of pregabalin and tizanidine. Concomitant use of pregabalin with tizanidine may cause additive CNS depression. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of excessive CNS depression.
Primidone: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Propafenone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and propafenone as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and propafenone is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Propranolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Pseudoephedrine; Triprolidine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Quazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Quinapril: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Quinapril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Ramelteon: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like ramelteon can cause additive CNS depression.
Ramipril: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Relugolix; Estradiol; Norethindrone acetate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Remifentanil: (Major) Concomitant use of remifentanil with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Remimazolam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Ritlecitinib: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and ritlecitinib as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and ritlecitinib is a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Rucaparib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of tizanidine with rucaparib if possible due the risk of increased plasma concentrations of tizanidine. If concomitant use is unavoidable, monitor for an increase in tizanidine-related adverse reactions (e.g., hypotension, bradycardia, excessive drowsiness). Tizanidine is a sensitive CYP1A2 substrate and rucaparib is a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Sacubitril; Valsartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Sarilumab: (Moderate) Monitor for reduced efficacy of tizanidine if coadministered with sarilumab. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilmuab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as tizanidine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Secobarbital: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like barbiturates can cause additive CNS depression.
Secukinumab: (Moderate) If secukinumab is initiated or discontinued in a patient taking tizanidine, monitor for altered patient response to tizanidine; tizanidine dose adjustments may be needed. The formation of CYP450 enzymes may be altered by increased concentrations of cytokines during chronic inflammation. Thus, the formation of CYP450 enzymes could be normalized during secukinumab administration. In theory, clinically relevant drug interactions may occur with CYP450 substrates that have a narrow therapeutic index such as tizanidine.
Segesterone Acetate; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and oral contraceptives as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine with a single 2 mg dose and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. A retrospective analysis of population pharmacokinetic data found that the clearance of tizanidine was 50% lower in females taking oral contraceptives compared to those not on oral contraceptives.
Siltuximab: (Moderate) Monitor for reduced efficacy of tizanidine if coadministered with siltuximab. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by siltuximab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as tizanidine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when siltuximab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping siltuximab. In vitro, siltuximab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Spironolactone: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Spironolactone; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Stiripentol: (Moderate) Consider a dose adjustment of tizanidine when coadministered with stiripentol. Coadministration may alter plasma concentrations of tizanidine resulting in an increased risk of adverse reactions and/or decreased efficacy. Additive somnolence and sedation may occur. Tizanidine is a sensitive CYP1A2 substrate. In vitro data predicts inhibition or induction of CYP1A2 by stiripentol potentially resulting in clinically significant interactions.
Sufentanil: (Major) Concomitant use of opiate agonists with skeletal muscle relaxants may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opiate pain medications with skeletal muscle relaxants to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations needed to achieve the desired clinical effect. If an opiate agonist is initiated in a patient taking a skeletal muscle relaxant, use a lower initial dose of the opiate and titrate to clinical response. If a skeletal muscle relaxant is prescribed for a patient taking an opiate agonist, use a lower initial dose of the skeletal muscle relaxant and titrate to clinical response. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Tapentadol: (Major) Concomitant use of opioid agonists with tizanidine may cause excessive sedation and somnolence. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with tizanidine to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations.
Telmisartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Telmisartan; Amlodipine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Telmisartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Temazepam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Terazosin: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Teriflunomide: (Moderate) Use caution when administering teriflunomide and tizanidine concurrently. In vivo data suggest that teriflunomide is a weak inducer of CYP1A2. Coadministration of teriflunomide with CYP1A2 substrates, such as tizanidine, may decrease tizanidine exposure and lead to a reduction in efficacy.
Thalidomide: (Moderate) Thalidomide frequently causes drowsiness and somnolence and may enhance the sedative activity of tizanidine.
Thiazide diuretics: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Thiothixene: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and antipsychotics like thiothixene can cause additive CNS depression.
Timolol: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Tocilizumab: (Moderate) Monitor for reduced efficacy of tizanidine if coadministered with tocilizumab. An adjustment of tizanidine dose may be required. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by tocilizumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as tizanidine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when tocilizumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping tocilizumab. In vitro, tocilizumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Tolcapone: (Moderate) COMT inhibitors should be given cautiously with other agents that cause CNS depression, such as tizanidine, due to the possibility of additive sedation. COMT inhibitors have also been associated with sudden sleep onset during activities of daily living such as driving, which has resulted in accidents in some cases. Prescribers should re-assess patients for drowsiness or sleepiness regularly throughout treatment, especially since events may occur well after the start of treatment. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or other tasks requiring mental alertness until they know how the combination affects them.
Torsemide: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant loop diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Tramadol: (Major) Concomitant use of tramadol with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Tramadol; Acetaminophen: (Major) Concomitant use of tramadol with a skeletal muscle relaxant may cause respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, and death. Limit the use of opioid pain medications with a skeletal muscle relaxant to only patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, reduce initial dosage and titrate to clinical response; use the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment durations. Educate patients about the risks and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. (Minor) Tizanidine delays the time to attain peak concentrations of acetaminophen by about 16 minutes. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
Trandolapril: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Trandolapril; Verapamil: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and verapamil as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and verapamil is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor. (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Treprostinil: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Triamterene: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Triamterene; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant potassium-sparing diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Triazolam: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like the benzodiazepines can cause additive CNS depression. The severity of this interaction may be increased when additional CNS depressants are given.
Triprolidine: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine and CNS depressants like sedating h1-blockers can cause additive CNS depression.
Valerian, Valeriana officinalis: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with the phytomedicinal valerian, Valeriana officinalis can cause additive CNS depression.
Valsartan: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Valsartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant thiazide diuretic and tizanidine use due to risk for additive hypotension.
Vasodilators: (Moderate) Concurrent use of tizanidine with antihypertensive agents can result in significant hypotension. Caution is advised when tizanidine is to be used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy.
Vemurafenib: (Major) Avoid the use of vemurafenib with tizanidine; the tizanidine Cmax and AUC values were significantly increased when these agents were coadministered in a drug interaction study. If concomitant use of these drugs is required, initiate tizanidine at the 2-mg dose and increase in 2- to 4-mg increments daily based on the patient response. Monitor patients closely for tizanidine toxicity; if adverse reactions such as hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occur, reduce or discontinue tizanidine therapy. Vemurafenib is a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor and tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate with a narrow therapeutic index. In a drug interaction study (n = 16), the tizanidine Cmax increased 2.2-fold and the tizanidine AUC value increased 4.7-fold when a single 2-mg PO dose of tizanidine was given following 21 days of vemurafenib 960 mg PO twice daily in cancer patients.
Verapamil: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and verapamil as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and verapamil is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Viloxazine: (Contraindicated) Concomitant use of viloxazine and tizanidine is contraindicated due to the increased risk for tizanidine-related adverse effects and exposure. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and viloxazine is a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with other strong CYP1A2 inhibitors increased the exposure of tizanidine by 10 and 33-fold.
Zaleplon: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of tizanidine with anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression. A reduction in the dose of these medications may be considered to minimize additive sedative effects, if they occur. With hypnotic medications, the risk of next-day psychomotor impairment is increased during co-administration of other CNS depressants, which may decrease the ability to perform tasks requiring full mental alertness such as driving.
Zileuton: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of tizanidine and zileuton as increased tizanidine exposure may occur. If use together is necessary, initiate tizanidine at 2 mg and increase by 2 to 4 mg/day based on clinical response. Discontinue tizanidine if hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occurs. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and zileuton is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Zolpidem: (Moderate) Monitor for excessive sedation and somnolence during coadministration of tizanidine with anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics. Concurrent use may result in additive CNS depression. A reduction in the dose of these medications may be considered to minimize additive sedative effects, if they occur. With hypnotic medications, the risk of next-day psychomotor impairment is increased during co-administration of other CNS depressants, which may decrease the ability to perform tasks requiring full mental alertness such as driving.
Zuranolone: (Major) Avoid the use of multiple sedating agents due to the risk for additive CNS depression. If use is necessary, consider a downward dosage adjustment of either or both medications, especially in patients with additional risk factors for sedation-related harm.
Tizanidine is a central-acting alpha2-adrenergic agonist which acts at presynaptic receptors. It is structurally and pharmacologically related to clonidine, but has only 2-10% of clonidine's antihypertensive potency. The antispasmodic activity of tizanidine results from agonism at central pre-synaptic alpha2-receptors. The response to agonism at these receptors is a decrease in the release of excitatory amino acids which in turn leads to inhibition of spinal motor neurons. In animal models, tizanidine has no direct effect on skeletal muscle fibers or the neuromuscular junction, and no major effect on monosynaptic spinal reflexes. The effects of tizanidine are greatest on polysynaptic pathways. The overall effect of these actions is thought to reduce facilitation of spinal motor neurons.
Tizanidine is administered orally as capsules or tablets. It is approximately 30% bound to plasma proteins. Approximately 95% of an oral dose is metabolized, primarily by the hepatic cytochrome isoenzyme CYP1A2 and presumably to inactive metabolites with half-lives ranging from 20 to 40 hours. The half-life of tizanidine is approximately 2 hours. Following single and multiple oral dosing, about 60% and 20% of the dose is recovered in the urine and feces, respectively.
Affected cytochrome P450 isoenzymes and drug transporters: CYP1A2
Tizanidine is primarily metabolized by the hepatic cytochrome isoenzyme CYP1A2.
-Route-Specific Pharmacokinetics
Oral Route
Tizanidine is well-absorbed, with an absolute oral bioavailability of 40% due to extensive first pass metabolism in the liver; the tablets and capsules are bioequivalent under fasted conditions, but not under fed conditions. Following oral administration of the tablet or capsule in the fasted state, peak plasma concentrations of tizanidine occur in about 1 hour. Food increases the Cmax of the tablets by about 30% and delays the time to peak concentration by approximately 25 minutes. When the capsules are given with food, the Cmax is decreased by 20% and the Tmax is increased by 2-3 hours. As a result, the Cmax of the capsules is about two-thirds the Cmax for the tablet when given with food. Food also increases the extent of absorption of both the tablets and capsules; the increase is approximately 30% for the tablets and about 10% for the capsules. Sprinkling the contents of the capsule on applesauce results in a 15-20% increase in Cmax and AUC of tizanidine and a 15-minute decrease in the time to peak concentration. Once absorbed, tizanidine is widely distributed throughout the body. The intrapatient effects of tizanidine on muscle tone are correlated with plasma concentrations; adverse effects are dose-related.
-Special Populations
Hepatic Impairment
The effects of hepatic disease on tizanidine disposition have not been studied.
Renal Impairment
Tizanidine clearance is reduced in renally impaired patients. Tizanidine clearance is reduced by more than 50% in elderly patients with renal impairment (CrCl < 25 ml/min) compared to healthy elderly subjects. It is not known whether tizanidine is significantly removed by hemodialysis.
Pediatrics
The effects pediatric age on tizanidine disposition have not been studied.
Geriatric
Tizanidine clearance is reduced in elderly subjects. A cross-study comparison of pharmacokinetic data following single-dose tizanidine showed that younger subjects cleared the drug four times faster than elderly subjects. Tizanidine clearance is reduced by more than 50% in elderly patients with renal impairment (CrCl < 25 ml/min) compared to healthy elderly subjects.
Gender Differences
Tizanidine clearance is not influenced by gender. Gender had no influence on tizanidine pharmacokinetics.
Ethnic Differences
The effects of race on tizanidine disposition have not been studied.