Substances
Is Methocarbamol Addictive? Here’s What You Need To Know
Table of Contents
Key Points
- Methocarbamol is associated with a slight risk of abuse and addiction, and this risk may be higher for those with a history of substance misuse.
- Aside from addiction, there are other things you should know about methocarbamol, including dangerous interactions and side effects.
- Avoid drinking alcohol with methocarbamol and tell your doctor if you have a history of alcohol abuse or addiction.
- Never start a new medication without first talking to your healthcare provider.
- Consider natural alternatives to muscle pain and stiffness, such as rest and physical therapy.
Quick Answer: Is Methocarbamol Addictive?
Methocarbamol (Robaxin) has a low potential for addiction. It is not a controlled substance under federal law, and it doesn’t cause the intense euphoria linked to opioids or benzodiazepines. It can still be misused, especially at high doses or when mixed with alcohol, opioids, or other sedatives. People with a history of substance use disorder are at higher risk. Take it only as prescribed, and for short periods.
Like other muscle relaxants, methocarbamol (or Robaxin) carries some risk of abuse. However, this risk is low compared to other muscle relaxants, such as carisoprodol and diazepam.[1] Methocarbamol should be used only as prescribed by a healthcare provider and with caution, especially for people with a history of addiction or substance misuse.
What Is Methocarbamol (Robaxin)?
Methocarbamol (brand name Robaxin) is an FDA-approved prescription muscle relaxant commonly prescribed alongside rest and physical therapy for muscle pain caused by strain, sprains, or other injuries. It is classified as a muscle relaxant, and its brand name is Robaxin. Methocarbamol works by calming the central nervous system, which may result in a relaxing or sedative effect. This can relieve pain, stiffness and discomfort from acute conditions including strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal injuries. Certain muscle relaxants have a higher potential for abuse than others. Methocarbamol is often prescribed early in the treatment of acute musculoskeletal pain, particularly when rest and physical therapy need pharmacologic support.[2]
Is methocarbamol a controlled substance?
According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, methocarbamol is not a controlled substance.[3] However, some other medications in the same class of drugs, such as Valium (diazepam) and Soma (carisoprodol), are listed as Schedule IV controlled substances. Although methocarbamol is a centrally acting muscle relaxant like Soma (carisoprodol) and Valium (diazepam), it is not classified as a controlled substance. However, it still requires a prescription for legal use in the United States.
Is Methocarbamol Addictive?
Methocarbamol (Robaxin) is not considered to be very addictive. However, some of the effects of Methocarbamol can be exaggerated if the medication is taken in excess or with alcohol, which can lead to substance misuse. This is a particular risk factor for those with a history of sedative misuse.
Why is methocarbamol considered addictive?
Methocarbamol’s absence on the DEA’s list of controlled substances may lead one to believe that it’s not addictive. Moreover, the drug does not produce the same “high” as other drugs such as benzodiazepines or opioids. The potential for abuse exists, and it’s higher for people with a history of alcohol or substance abuse. There’s little research available about the addictive properties of methocarbamol, but it could be explained by its relaxing or sedative effect on the body.
What’s the proper dose for methocarbamol?
There is no strong evidence to suggest that methocarbamol is addictive at any dose, although misuse may increase the risk of adverse effects. It’s always recommended to take medications exactly as prescribed, especially CNS depressants. This can help you avoid potentially dangerous side effects, including coma or death.
Methocarbamol is usually taken orally and is available in tablet form. Both 500 mg and 750 mg tablets are available. For muscle pain or stiffness, this medication is typically taken three or four times a day, with a total daily dose of 1500 mg.[4]
It is recommended to take this medication with a large glass of water. If you miss a dose and it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the previous dose. Don’t take two doses at once, and consult your physician before making any changes to your medication, including dose adjustments or scheduling.
How to Take Methocarbamol Safely
- Take it exactly as prescribed and only for the length of time your doctor recommends.
- Don’t drink alcohol while taking it.
- Don’t combine it with opioids, benzodiazepines, sleep aids, or other sedatives unless your doctor approves.
- Avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
- Never share your prescription, and store it where others can’t reach it.
- Dispose of leftover tablets through a pharmacy take-back program.
Methocarbamol: Adverse Effects and Interactions
Although the potential for abuse presents a slight concern with methocarbamol, there are other adverse effects to be aware of, particularly for loved ones taking this medication.
Side Effects of Methocarbamol
Some common side effects associated with methocarbamol may include:[5]
- Fever
- Blurry vision
- Drowsiness
- Stomach problems
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Urine discoloration (i.e., black, blue, or green)
If you experience severe side effects, such as a rash or itchiness, or if mild side effects persist, contact your healthcare provider immediately. This could be evidence of an adverse reaction.
Who Should Avoid Methocarbamol?
The muscle relaxant methocarbamol isn’t suitable for everyone. Taking methocarbamol can be risky for some populations. If you meet any of the following criteria, you may want to avoid methocarbamol and ask your doctor about alternative treatment options for muscle pain:[6]
- Under 16 or over 65
- History of alcohol or substance use disorders
- Pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- History of seizures
- Suffer from myasthenia gravis
- Kidney disease
Methocarbamol Drug Interactions
Like other medications, there are possible drug interactions to be aware of with methocarbamol. Be sure to tell your doctor if you’re on any of the following drugs and consider alternative treatment options for muscle pain:[7]
- Antihistamines
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Narcotics for cough or pain
- Anesthetics
- Phenothiazines
- Sleep medications
- Antidepressants
- Cholinesterase inhibitors
- Other muscle relaxants
This may not be a complete list. Always consult your healthcare provider about any other medications and supplements you’re taking before starting a new one.
Methocarbamol and Alcohol
Alcohol can be dangerous when mixed with muscle relaxants, including methocarbamol. It’s best to avoid drinking when on this and other medications. Specifically, alcohol can increase many of the adverse effects of methocarbamol, particularly its sedative effects.
Other Dangers of Methocarbamol
Methocarbamol tends to have a sedative effect, which can vary from person to person. Don’t operate a motor vehicle after taking methocarbamol until you know how this medication will affect you. The use of alcohol or cannabis with methocarbamol is highly discouraged as it can increase the sedative effects of this drug.
Signs of Methocarbamol Misuse or Dependence
Most people who take methocarbamol as directed never develop a problem. Misuse is more likely when the drug is used for its calming effect rather than for muscle pain. Warning signs include:
- Taking larger or more frequent doses than prescribed
- Using it after the injury has healed, or for longer than the prescriber intended
- Running out of refills early or asking for extra prescriptions
- Getting methocarbamol from more than one doctor or from someone else
- Taking it to relax, sleep, or “take the edge off”
- Mixing it with alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, or cannabis
- Feeling anxious, restless, or unable to sleep when a dose is missed
- Continuing to use it despite problems at work, at home, or with health
Who is at higher risk? People with a past or current substance use disorder, people taking other sedating medications, and people living with chronic pain or anxiety.
If several of these signs sound familiar, speak with a doctor or an addiction specialist. Early help is easier and safer.
Can You Get Withdrawal From Methocarbamol?
Research on methocarbamol withdrawal is limited, and it is not known for causing severe withdrawal when used briefly as prescribed. Some people who take it for a long time or at high doses report rebound muscle tightness, anxiety, irritability, and trouble sleeping after stopping suddenly.
Safer ways to stop:
- Talk to your prescriber before stopping if you’ve used it for more than a few weeks or at high doses.
- Ask whether a gradual dose reduction makes sense for you.
- Never stop several medications at once without medical guidance.
Seek medical detox if methocarbamol was combined with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids. Withdrawal from those substances can be dangerous, and in some cases life-threatening (for example, seizures from alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal). A supervised drug detox program can manage this safely.
Consider Natural Alternatives
Methocarbamol is not a first-line treatment for muscle pain, and there are safer and more effective alternatives for many people, such as rest and physical therapy, for instance. Though the potential for abuse and addiction is low, it’s not zero, and it could be higher for people with a history of alcohol or drug abuse. That’s not to mention other adverse effects, such as uncomfortable or dangerous side effects and possible drug interactions.
When to Get Professional Help
If methocarbamol use has stopped being about muscle pain, or you’re using it with alcohol or other drugs, you don’t have to handle it alone. Misuse often happens alongside anxiety, chronic pain, or other substance use, and treatment works best when it covers all of it.
At Ikon Recovery in Saddle Brook, NJ, our team offers prescription drug addiction treatment, dual diagnosis care, and a full range of levels of care, from detox to outpatient. You can also check your insurance options or call (844) 394-4566 to speak with someone confidentially.
In a crisis: Call 911 for an overdose. Poison Control is 1-800-222-1222. For emotional crisis support, call or text 988. For free treatment referrals, SAMHSA’s helpline is 1-800-662-4357.
