Dantrolene is used to relieve muscle spasm which occurs in conditions such as multiple sclerosis (scars or lesions in the brain and spinal cord), stroke or spinal cord injury.
This medicine is also used to treat or prevent malignant hyperthermia (disease causing fast rise in body temperature).
Take Dantrolene exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take Dantrolene with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have liver disease and if you use spasticity (muscle stiffness or spasms) to maintain posture or balance as Dantrolene may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have heart and lung disease.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
For as long as you are taking Dantrolene, you will need to have regular blood tests to make sure that your liver function is normal. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have the blood test. It is important that you keep all appointments with your doctor.
Dantrolene may cause drowsiness and dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle weakness, tiredness, and difficulty in swallowing.
This medicine may also cause sensitivity to sunlight. Apply sunscreen when going outdoors and avoid direct or prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV lamps.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes and shortness of breath, chest pain.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking these medicines:
- medicines that contain oestrogen e.g. birth control pills
- medicines for high blood pressure and heart disease e.g. verapamil, diltiazem
- medicine for sleep disorder e.g. zolpidem
- medicine for anxiety e.g. diazepam
- other muscle relaxants e.g. vecuronium
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicine, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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