Metaxalone, commonly known as Skelaxin, is a prescription muscle relaxant primarily used to treat muscle spasms and discomfort associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions such as strains and sprains. It works by reducing the activity of certain nerves involved in muscle contraction, leading to relaxation and pain relief. Metaxalone is not a controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning it is not subject to the same strict regulations as other drugs, such as opioids or stimulants. It is, however, classified as a Schedule IV drug under the Drug Enforcement Administration’s classification system, which indicates that it has a low potential for abuse and dependence compared to Schedule I or II drugs. As with any medication, it is essential to take metaxalone as prescribed by a healthcare professional to avoid potential side effects or interactions.
Classification of Metaxalone
Metaxalone is not a controlled substance in the United States. It is classified as a non-narcotic muscle relaxant. This means that it is not regulated by the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which is a federal law that regulates the manufacture, distribution, and use of controlled substances.
Controlled substances are divided into five schedules. Schedule I substances are the most tightly controlled and include drugs such as heroin, LSD, and peyote. Schedule V substances are the least tightly controlled and include drugs such as vitamins and cough medicines.
Metaxalone is not listed in any of the CSA’s schedules. This means that it is not considered to be a controlled substance and is not subject to the same regulations as controlled substances.
| Classification | Description |
|---|---|
| Non-narcotic muscle relaxant | Not regulated by the Controlled Substances Act |
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Schedules
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies controlled substances into five schedules based on their potential for abuse, medical use, and safety. Substances with a higher potential for abuse and less medical use are placed in a higher schedule. The schedules are as follows:
- Schedule I: Drugs with no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, such as heroin and LSD.
- Schedule II: Drugs with a high potential for abuse, but with some accepted medical use, such as cocaine and methamphetamine.
- Schedule III: Drugs with a moderate potential for abuse, but with some accepted medical use, such as codeine and anabolic steroids.
- Schedule IV: Drugs with a low potential for abuse, but with some accepted medical use, such as Xanax and Valium.
- Schedule V: Drugs with a low potential for abuse, and with widely accepted medical use, such as cough syrup and Robitussin.
Metaxalone is a prescription muscle relaxant that is used to relieve pain and stiffness caused by muscle spasms. It is not a controlled substance, meaning that it is not regulated by the DEA.
| Schedule | Potential for Abuse | Medical Use | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schedule I | High | None | Heroin, LSD |
| Schedule II | High | Some | Cocaine, methamphetamine |
| Schedule III | Moderate | Some | Codeine, anabolic steroids |
| Schedule IV | Low | Some | Xanax, Valium |
| Schedule V | Low | Widely accepted | Cough syrup, Robitussin |
## What is Metaxalone?
Metaxalone is a muscle relaxant used to treat pain and stiffness caused by muscle spasms. It is not a controlled substance and it is available by prescription only.
## Pharmacological Effects of Metaxalone
Metaxalone acts on the central nervous system (CNS) to reduce muscle spasms. It works by inhibiting the transmission of nerve impulses in the spinal cord and brain. This results in a decrease in muscle tone and stiffness.
Metaxalone is well-absorbed orally and reaches peak plasma concentrations within 2-4 hours. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine.
## Common Side Effects of Metaxalone
Metaxalone is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects include:
* dizziness
* drowsiness
* nausea
* vomiting
* headache
* dry mouth
## Precautions and Contraindications
Metaxalone should not be used to treat muscle spasms caused by a CNS disorder. It should also be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.
Is Metaxalone a Controlled Substance?
No, metaxalone is not a controlled substance. It is a prescription medication used to relieve pain and muscle spasms.
Medical Uses of Metaxalone
- Relieves muscle spasms and pain caused by strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal injuries
- Can be used to treat back pain, neck pain, and other types of chronic pain
- May also be used to treat fibromyalgia and other conditions that cause muscle pain and stiffness
| Side Effect | Percentage of Patients |
|---|---|
| Drowsiness | 10-20% |
| Nausea | 5-10% |
| Vomiting | 1-5% |
| Headache | 1-5% |
| Dizziness | 1-5% |
Well, there you have it, folks! Metaxalone is not a controlled substance, so if you’ve been prescribed it by a doctor, you’re good to go. Just remember to take it as directed and avoid alcohol while doing so. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back for more health-related info and updates in the future. Stay healthy, y’all!