Dantrolene is used to relax muscles or reduce muscle tension caused by certain conditions such as multiple sclerosis (scars or lesions in the brain and spinal cord), cerebral palsy (brain disorder affecting movement and muscle tone or posture), spinal cord injury, and stroke.
This medicine may also be used to prevent malignant hyperthermia (a serious reaction characterised by extremely high body temperature, muscle spasms and rapid heart rate due to certain medicines).
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 this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the severity of your condition and your response to the medication.
If you are taking Dantrolene for muscle relaxation or to reduce muscle tension, you must take this medicine regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your 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 the following conditions:
- active liver disease e.g. hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), cirrhosis (severe scarring of the liver caused by long-term liver damage)
- muscle stiffness or increased muscle tension allows you to keep an upright position, balance during movement or better physical function
as Dantrolene may not be suitable for you.
Do not breastfeed while you are being treated with this medicine.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease
- lung problems
- history of liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Dantrolene to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
Routine tests (e.g. liver function) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
Dantrolene may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or weakness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
This medicine may also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Apply sunscreen when going outdoors and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV lamps.
Other side effects include any of the following: diarrhoea, constipation, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, headache, rash, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, dark coloured urine, tiredness, swelling in the legs and ankles
- shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure
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 any of these medicines:
- medicines that cause drowsiness or affect your concentration
- estrogens (certain sex hormones used to treat symptoms of menopause)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Dantrolene.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol intake may worsen the dizziness and drowsiness caused by Dantrolene.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.