Pros
Provides temporary relief
Not likely to be habit-forming
Treats muscle spasms due to strains or sprains
Generic versions available can make it more affordable
Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) prescription available online
If you are suffering from muscle spasms, Flexeril can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Flexeril today from a board-certified doctor online.*
Book an appointment
Relieves muscle spasms effectively
Ideal for short-term musculoskeletal conditions
Enhanced results with rest and physical therapy
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
About Flexeril
Flexeril is a skeletal muscle relaxant. Like other skeletal muscle relaxants, it blocks nerve impulses (pain sensation) sent to your brain to relax muscles.
Flexeril is used with rest and physical therapy to treat skeletal muscle conditions, including pain, muscle injuries, and muscle spasms. Flexeril is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation under brand names, including cyclobenzaprine.
Flexeril may be prescribed as a tablet or capsule. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you're prescribed Flexeril, be sure to complete the full course of the muscle relaxant unless your healthcare professional specifically tells you to stop. The muscle relaxant may not fully treat your muscle spasms if you don't complete your prescription.
Flexeril uses
Flexeril is FDA approved for the short-term relief of pain from muscle spasms, but your healthcare provider may also prescribe it off-label to treat other medical conditions.
Your PlushCare doctor may prescribe Flexeril for the following reasons or other reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.
Muscle spasms
Flexeril is FDA-approved as an adjunct to rest and physical therapy for the relief of muscle spasms associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions. Flexeril tablets should only be taken for short periods (2–3 weeks), as muscle spasm symptoms are generally short-term.
What are the pros and cons?
Flexeril
Cons
Not for long-term use
May cause dry mouth
Can cause significant drowsiness
Not for people with hyperthyroidism or heart-related conditions
Flexeril side effects
The side effects associated with taking Flexeril are typically mild. Most Flexeril side effects are associated with drowsiness.
Flexeril has some common side effects. They may include:Drowsiness and tiredness
Headache and dizziness
Upset stomach, nausea, and constipation
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Fast or irregular heartbeat
Chest pain sensations
Numbness or weakness, especially on one side of your body
Tell your doctor if you notice any adverse effects or develop other new or concerning symptoms. Seek medical help immediately if you experience any symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as agitation, hallucinations, fast heart rate, or muscle stiffness.
The use of Flexeril in young children under age 15 is not advised.
How to take Flexeril
Your healthcare professional will be able to give you instructions on how to take your Flexeril prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Flexeril can come in different forms and doses, so follow the specific instructions on your prescription. The starting dose for Flexeril typically ranges from 5 mg to 10 mg for muscle spasms. Flexeril is usually taken once daily for 2–3 weeks.
What to avoid while taking Flexeril
Flexeril has 393 drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other drugs or supplements, as well as nonprescription drugs.
Possible drug interactions with Flexeril include:
Meperidine
Tramadol or other narcotic pain medications
Cold or allergy medications that contain antihistamines
Medicine used to treat excess stomach acid, stomach ulcers, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Bronchodilator asthma medication
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Flexeril. Alcohol may increase your risk of side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating.
Flexeril can cause tiredness and impaired reactions. Only drive or use hazardous machinery once you know how Flexeril affects you.
Medication alternatives to Flexeril
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another muscle relaxant or other central nervous system (CNS) depressant in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Muscle spasms
Flexeril prescription FAQs
How much does Flexeril cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, Flexeril costs around $51.15 for thirty 10 mg tablets without insurance. Fortunately, generic brands like cyclobenzaprine HCL offer an affordable alternative.
How can I refill my Flexeril prescription?
Book a virtual appointment with a board-certified PlushCare doctor to refill your Flexeril prescription. After reviewing your symptoms and medical history, your doctor can send an electronic prescription for your new prescription drugs to your local pharmacy.
How long after taking a Flexeril does it work?
Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine HCL) starts working on the central nervous system within one hour to relieve pain and relax muscles. Flexeril is available as immediate-release capsules.
Can I take Flexeril during the day?
Yes, you can take Flexeril during the day. However, standard doses of cyclobenzaprine HCL may make you drowsy. Talk to your healthcare professional about splitting your dose to lessen the drowsiness.
Who should not take Flexeril?
Avoid taking Flexeril if you have certain medical conditions, such as:
Thyroid disorder
Congestive heart failure
Liver disease
Glaucoma
Trouble urinating
Enlarged prostate
What happens if I miss a dose of Flexeril?
If you miss a dose of Flexeril, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.
What happens if I take too much Flexeril?
If you've taken too much Flexeril, contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical help. An overdose of Flexeril can be deadly. Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, and tremors.
3 simple steps to request your Flexeril prescription today
Step 1
Book a Flexeril prescription request appointment.
You can book a same-day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Flexeril prescription.
You can visit a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up your Flexeril prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Flexeril prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your Flexeril prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
Copay
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
- We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
Book an appointment
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Flexeril prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Food and Drug Administration. Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine HCL) tablets. Accessed on September 29, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2003/017821s045lbl.pdf
Mayo Clinic. Cyclobenzaprine (Oral Route). Accessed on September 29, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/cyclobenzaprine-oral-route/description/drg-20063236
MedlinePlus. Cyclobenzaprine. Accessed on September 29, 2022. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682514.html
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.