Relaxar

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Relaxar

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Relaxar

What is Relaxar? Defining the Mephenesin and Nicotinic Acid Combination

Property Description
Active Ingredients Mephenesin, Nicotinic Acid (Niacin)
Form Tablet, capsule (Oral); Cream, ointment (Topical)
Pharmacological Class Centrally Acting Skeletal Muscle Relaxant, Peripheral Vasodilator/Vitamin
General Purpose Relief of muscle spasm and associated stiffness
Origin Synthetic and Semi-synthetic

Relaxar is a combination pharmaceutical preparation whose identity is defined by the blend of a Centrally Acting Skeletal Muscle Relaxant and a Peripheral Vasodilator and Vitamin source. This dual-action medication is primarily used to address symptoms related to localized muscle spasticity and stiffness, a therapeutic application clinically recognized for providing relief in cases of musculoskeletal discomfort.


Active Ingredients and Formulation Type

The active components are the two International Nonproprietary Names (INN): Mephenesin and Nicotinic Acid (Vitamin B3). This explicitly defined combination product integrates the synthetic muscle-relaxing compound, Mephenesin, with Nicotinic Acid, which is recognized as an essential vitamin with a role in vasodilation. The formulation combines an agent for muscle relaxation with a component that assists in localized blood flow.

The preparation is available in several dosage forms, most commonly as an oral tablet or capsule, and sometimes as a topical cream or ointment. Mephenesin is characterized by its ability to reduce excessive central nerve activity, a function distinct from non-prescription topical pain relievers. This distinction confirms that the medicine works centrally to promote muscle relaxation.


The Dual Mechanism and General Purpose Differentiation

The overall function of Relaxar is achieved through the simultaneous relaxation of tense skeletal muscles and increase in localized blood flow. This unique profile gives the preparation an advantage over single-ingredient relaxants that focus on only one mechanism. For instance, the combination is often used to address the discomfort that arises from a tense neck or strained back muscles. By incorporating the vascular action of Nicotinic Acid, the medication assists in managing the physical stiffness associated with muscle spasms while simultaneously encouraging better local circulation, contributing to the feeling of discomfort relief in strained areas.

What side effects are possible with Relaxar?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information for Relaxar

Common Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions most frequently reported in clinical trials, often classified as very common (up to 38%) or common (1% to <10%), include drowsiness (somnolence), dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue. Other common reactions involve the gastrointestinal system (e.g., constipation, nausea, dyspepsia, abdominal pain).

Serious and Clinically Significant Risks

Relaxar is structurally related to tricyclic antidepressants, and its use carries a risk of serious, dose-related adverse effects affecting the central nervous system (CNS) and cardiovascular system. These risks include the development of a potentially life-threatening Serotonin Syndrome when used with other serotonergic drugs. The drug may also be associated with cardiac arrhythmias, sinus tachycardia, and prolongation of conduction time, consistent with the profile of its related drug class. Hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis and angioedema) have also been reported.

Contraindications and Restrictions

Relaxar is contraindicated (must not be used) in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to its components, in the acute recovery phase of a myocardial infarction, or in patients with arrhythmias, heart block, or hyperthyroidism. It is also strictly contraindicated with the concomitant use of Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing them. Caution is required in patients with a history of urinary retention, angle-closure glaucoma, or increased intraocular pressure due to its anticholinergic action. Use is generally not recommended in elderly patients or those with moderate or severe hepatic impairment.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose of Relaxar (Mephenesin/Nicotinic Acid) involves manifestations documented across multiple physiological systems, including the Central Nervous System (CNS), Respiratory, Hepatic, and Cardiovascular systems. Clinical signs described in regulatory sources include CNS depression, which can lead to paralysis and respiratory depression. Systemic toxicity may present as hypotension, altered mentation, jaundice, severe flushing, nausea, and vomiting.

Overdose is defined as potentially severe and life-threatening due to documented outcomes such as Acute liver failure (hepatotoxicity), Metabolic acidosis, and serious Cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., QT-prolongation). Death is a documented risk, often associated with bronchial aspiration secondary to severe CNS depression.

The official guidance mandates that any suspected overdose requires patients to seek immediate medical attention and contact emergency services. Management is strictly defined as symptomatic and supportive treatment, given that no specific antidote is known. Required procedures include the rapid assessment and stabilization of airway, breathing, and circulation, followed by continuous hospital monitoring. This monitoring includes ECG monitoring and Laboratory assessment (e.g., Liver function and Coagulation studies).

Therapeutic Uses of Relaxar

What Relaxar Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Relaxar is commonly used for the symptomatic relief of involuntary muscle spasm and tension, which are symptoms related to heightened physiological activity. This therapeutic class is often applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, and generally provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden of muscular distress.

The preparation is considered relevant for managing symptoms that interfere with daily functioning, specifically stiffness and restricted local movement that often follow muscle strain or prolonged tension. Used for conditions that present with disruptive symptom manifestations, the medication may offer symptomatic relief that contributes to easing the overall symptom load during periods of heightened stiffness. It is relevant in conditions characterized by episodic or fluctuating symptom patterns of localized muscular aching.

“This therapy may assist with maintaining functional stability and supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress.”

The core therapeutic relevance is defined by its application in three key areas: managing acute muscle spasm, managing symptoms of consequential stiffness and restricted movement, and is relevant for easing localized aching in episodes of strain.


Quick Fact: Relief for Musculoskeletal Discomfort
Common Use Cases: Commonly used in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, such as those associated with muscle tension, where short-term symptomatic assistance is needed.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Relaxar?

This section outlines the official population-eligibility and restriction rules for Relaxar (Mephenesin and Nicotinic Acid combination), as defined in authoritative government regulatory documents.


Absolute Contraindications

Relaxar must not be used by individuals with the following formally listed conditions, primarily due to the Nicotinic Acid component's potential risks:

  • Active Liver Disease (including unexplained persistent elevations in liver enzymes).
  • Active Peptic Ulcer Disease.
  • Arterial Bleeding.
  • Known Hypersensitivity or allergy to any ingredient in the product.

Age and Reproductive Restrictions

Population Official Eligibility Status
Pediatric Use (<16 years) Safety and effectiveness not established; generally not recommended.
Pregnancy Advised against use; only use if clearly needed.
Lactation (Breastfeeding) Advised against breastfeeding during treatment.

Conditional Use (Use with Caution)

Patients with mild hepatic or renal impairment must use this medicine with caution. Individuals with diabetes or a history of gout or stomach ulcers require close medical monitoring and supervision while using Relaxar.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with Other Medicines and Products

This section summarizes drug-drug and drug-substance interactions for Relaxar based on information documented in official government regulatory sources.


Contraindicated and Restricted Combinations

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), including linezolid and phenelzine, are strictly prohibited for concomitant use or within 14 days of stopping Relaxar. This restriction is mandated due to the risk of serious, potentially fatal interactions, such as hyperpyretic crisis.


Pharmacodynamic and Additive Effects

Interacting Category Documented Effect
Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids) Risk of additive CNS depression, potentially leading to enhanced drowsiness, dizziness, and impairment.
Serotonergic Drugs (e.g., SSRIs, triptans) Increased risk of Serotonin Syndrome, a serious condition caused by excessive serotonin activity.
Antihypertensive Agents (e.g., Guanethidine) Relaxar may officially block the hypotensive effect of Guanethidine, reducing its efficacy.

Metabolic and Exposure Alterations

The metabolism of Relaxar and its activity are influenced by certain enzymes. CYP2C19 inhibitors can increase Relaxar's systemic exposure, while CYP2C19 inducers (such as St. John's Wort or rifampin) can decrease its exposure. Patients who are known CYP2C19 poor metabolizers also exhibit higher plasma concentrations of the active drug. Separately, food intake may increase the bioavailability of the extended-release formulation. Use in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment is not recommended due to increased drug levels.

Mechanism of Action

Relaxar acts as a selective agonist on presynaptic alpha-2 adrenergic receptors (alpha2-ARs) located predominantly within the spinal cord and brainstem. This molecular interaction triggers an inhibitory cascade that reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters onto motor neurons. The consequence of this suppression is the enhancement of central inhibition within the motor pathways. This action supports the function of descending inhibitory pathways, leading to the suppression of polysynaptic spinal reflexes that regulate muscle tone. The resulting physiological effects are a decreased resistance to passive movement in skeletal muscles and a reduction in the frequency of involuntary muscle contractions. This mechanism influences the overall level of motor pathway activation, contributing solely to the profile of reduced muscle tone.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Relaxar

The administration of Relaxar is defined by official product documentation that details the approved dosage forms, schedules, and specific conditions for intake. This medication is authorized for either the oral route (as a tablet or capsule) or the topical route (as a cream or ointment).

Official Administration Guidelines

Instruction Domain Regulatory Requirement
Oral Dosage Single doses range from 250 mg to 500 mg of the primary active component.
Frequency Pattern Oral dosing is structured as a divided daily dose, typically administered three times daily. Topical forms are applied 2 to 3 times a day to the affected area.
Intake Timing The oral preparation is officially instructed to be taken with or immediately after food to aid consumption and manage tolerance.
Course Duration Use is strictly limited to short-term symptomatic management, as is the regulatory standard for this class of centrally acting agents.
Age-Group Rule Official guidelines often restrict use to adolescents aged 15 or 18 years and older.
Missed Dose Rule If a scheduled dose is missed, patients should resume the regular schedule and must not double the dose to compensate.

Procedural Summary

The official usage protocol mandates taking the specific oral dose three times daily with food for a short-term course. This protocol governs the entire administration pattern and specifies that a missed dose must be skipped if it falls close to the time of the next scheduled dose.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Relaxar

This section summarizes the types of research and the study patterns that contribute to the current understanding of Relaxar (Mephenesin and Nicotinic Acid combination), based on official scientific reports and regulatory documents. It describes what has been studied and what remains uncertain without offering medical advice or making claims about personal outcomes.


Evidence for Acute Skeletal Muscle Spasm

Research has explored how the Mephenesin component was studied for symptoms related to muscle spasm. The overall evidence base includes older clinical reports and foundational pharmacological studies that examined how symptoms change over time during acute episodes. These studies were applied in research contexts involving fluctuating or unstable symptoms that cause localized distress, such as neck or back strains.

Studies report how symptoms evolved in the observed populations by using scales to measure the intensity of the muscle spasm and the associated restricted local movement. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies related to changes in the subjective feeling of tension. However, the evidence is limited because there is a lack of recent, high-quality, placebo-controlled Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) specifically designed to evaluate the combination product against Mephenesin alone for this indication.


Evidence for Associated Stiffness and Local Discomfort

Research has explored the combination for stiffness and local discomfort, which are outcomes related to physical discomfort. Given the combination involves components studied for muscle relaxation and vasodilation, studies also examined how Nicotinic Acid was associated with outcomes linked to inflammatory or irritative states and circulation. This evidence is often indirect, drawn from different research fields.

Studies monitored changes measured during the study period, such as general pain or function scores, primarily in observational settings evaluating daily-life functioning related to the musculoskeletal system. Research describes patterns related to the systemic effects of Nicotinic Acid, which contributes to understanding how patients reported their experience of localized stiffness.


Major Gaps and Uncertainty in the Research Landscape

Comparative evidence is lacking to definitively know if the inclusion of Nicotinic Acid provides a measurable difference in outcomes when compared to using Mephenesin alone. Furthermore, long-term effects are not fully established, and the evidence quality varies across studies, with a heavy reliance on historical data. Research provides context but not individual predictions, and findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes. This highlights that while research contributes to the broader evidence landscape, there remain key areas where new, high-quality, targeted clinical investigation is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Relaxar (FAQ)

Q: Does this medication help with sleep or cause insomnia?

Official product information indicates that somnolence, which means feeling sleepy or drowsy, is a common side effect of Relaxar. Insomnia, or difficulty sleeping, is also listed in regulatory documents as a common to uncommon effect. Changes in sleep patterns are typically discussed with a healthcare provider.

Q: Is weight gain a common side effect, and how can I manage it?

Weight gain and peripheral oedema (swelling, usually in the hands or feet) are reported as very common or common side effects in the drug's regulatory documentation. Official product information only lists these effects and does not provide specific advice on how to manage them. Concerns about these side effects are best addressed by consulting a healthcare professional.

Q: Is the medication safe to use long-term?

Regulatory documents mention that Relaxar has been studied in clinical trials with durations extending up to two years. However, the official product labeling does not provide a definitive statement on 'safety' for all long-term use scenarios. The decision to continue the medication for extended periods is a clinical determination made by a healthcare provider.

Q: Can children 2 years old use it?

According to the official product information, Relaxar is not indicated for use in children under the age of 1 month for any condition. For certain uses, safety and effectiveness have not been established in children under 12 years of age. A healthcare provider must determine if this medication is appropriate for a pediatric patient.

How should Relaxar be stored and disposed of?

Storage Conditions

Relaxar must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, typically defined as 20 C to 25 C. To maintain its stability, the container must be kept tightly closed and protected from excessive heat and moisture; damp locations like the bathroom must be avoided.

Child-Safety Storage

For mandatory safety, the medication must be stored out of the reach and sight of children. Always lock safety caps and place the product in a secure, inaccessible location.

Disposal Instructions

Official protocol recommends utilizing a community drug take-back program for unused or expired product. If unavailable, the medication should be mixed with an undesirable substance (e.g., dirt) in a sealed container and placed in the trash. It must not be flushed down the toilet, and all identifying label information must be removed before disposal.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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