Myolastan

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Myolastan

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

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 Myolastan

The medicine formerly known by the trade name Myolastan is a single-ingredient, synthetic pharmaceutical product whose active ingredient is the chemical substance Tetrazepam.

Property Description
Active ingredient Tetrazepam (INN)
Form Oral tablet
Pharmacological class Benzodiazepine derivative, centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant
General purpose Easing muscle tension and spasms
Origin Synthetic

What Type of Medicine is Myolastan (Tetrazepam)?

Tetrazepam is chemically derived from the 1,4-benzodiazepine structure, confirming its origin as a synthetic compound. It is pharmacologically classified within the psycholeptic group, reflecting its status as a substance that acts directly upon the central nervous system. The unique molecular composition of Tetrazepam, which includes a distinct 5-cyclohexenyl group, was specifically designed to enhance its skeletal muscle relaxant properties. This modification differentiates it from compounds in the same class that are used predominantly for anti-anxiety or sedative effects.


What is the General Purpose of This Muscle Relaxant?

The general purpose of this medicine is to help relieve excessive, involuntary muscle stiffness, tension, and related spasms. Its primary therapeutic benefit is derived from its function as a muscle relaxant for managing conditions where muscle rigidity is a key source of discomfort. The compound achieves its effect by interacting with specific sites on the GABA-A receptor in the central nervous system. By acting as a modulator, it enhances the impact of the inhibitory neurotransmitter, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), acting to mitigate the overactive nerve signals that cause pathological muscle contraction. As a benzodiazepine derivative, it also inherently possesses a secondary anxiolytic property, meaning its purpose is to address both the physical tension and the underlying nervous overstimulation.

What side effects are possible with Myolastan?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile for Tetrazepam (formerly Myolastan) is defined by officially documented effects categorized by frequency and the body system affected, according to government regulatory sources.

Adverse Reactions and Frequency

Adverse effects are grouped into frequency categories based on clinical data. Common effects, reported in 1 to 10 out of 100 users, typically include central nervous system (CNS) effects such as drowsiness (somnolence), reduced motor coordination (ataxia), dizziness, and a reduction in muscle force. Serious skin reactions are officially classified as rare or of unknown frequency.

System-Organ Classes and Serious Risks

The most significant risks are documented across three main system classes:

  • Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: This class includes the documented risk of developing Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs), such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), and DRESS syndrome, which are unpredictable and documented as potentially fatal safety concerns.
  • Nervous System Disorders: Includes the common effects of sedation, ataxia, and sometimes anterograde amnesia, which is noted to occur most often several hours after administration.
  • Psychiatric Disorders: The risk of developing physical and psychological dependence is officially documented, alongside the potential for paradoxical reactions, including agitation or aggression.

Population and Duration Safety Notes

Safety notes explicitly detail that the risk of dependence increases with the dose and duration of treatment. Specific safety considerations apply to older adults, who are more susceptible to the sedative effects, leading to a documented increased risk of falls and related injuries. Use is restricted in individuals with documented severe hepatic or severe respiratory failure.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help: Official Regulatory Information for Tetrazepam

Immediate medical attention is required upon any suspicion of overdose with Tetrazepam (Myolastan). The official regulatory profile identifies a risk for life-threatening respiratory depression and profound central nervous system (CNS) effects, mandating urgent professional intervention.


Documented Overdose Manifestations

Overdose presentations are officially described as a spectrum of CNS depression. Common manifestations include drowsiness, somnolence, mental confusion, ataxia (loss of coordination), and decreased muscle tone (hypotonia). Severe cases can progress to coma and hypotension (low blood pressure). These severe outcomes are noted to be more likely following co-ingestion with other CNS depressants, such as alcohol.


Official Management and Special Considerations

The mainstay of management is defined as symptomatic and supportive treatment, focusing on maintaining vital functions. Regulatory guidance describes procedures such as gastric lavage or administration of activated charcoal if performed shortly after ingestion. Close observation of respiratory and cardiovascular function is required. While the antagonist Flumazenil is noted, its use is officially considered controversial in certain overdose settings. Furthermore, elderly patients and very young children are documented as being more susceptible to the CNS depressant effects of overdose.

Therapeutic Uses of Myolastan

The therapeutic application of Tetrazepam (formerly Myolastan) is applied in addressing symptomatic support in clinical situations marked by excessive, disruptive muscle tension and associated nervous distress. The therapeutic focus of this substance has historically aligned with the management of painful muscle contractures and muscle spasticity.

Applications include conditions presenting with acute episodes of severe stiffness, such as painful muscle contractures linked to vertebrogenic complaints. The compound is also utilized in the supportive management of chronic muscle spasticity, such as that seen in conditions like Multiple Sclerosis. It is relevant when symptoms of increased muscular activity create noticeable functional strain. This use supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress and relates to easing the overall symptom load.


Quick Fact: Relief for Musculoskeletal Tension
Primary Focus: Helps address symptoms related to physical discomfort, which involve symptoms of increased neurological or muscular activity.
Typical Context: Applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, and is often used during phases when symptoms become more noticeable.
Benefit: Is associated with improved comfort during symptomatic periods, and may assist with maintaining functional stability.

Regulatory References

  1. European Medicines Agency (EMA) review data

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The official regulatory status for Myolastan (Tetrazepam) defines a high level of restriction and is suspended across the European Union, as the benefits were judged not to outweigh the risks of serious skin reactions.

Populations and Conditions for Non-Eligibility

Classification Official Restriction Affected Populations
Absolute Contraindication Known hypersensitivity to Tetrazepam or benzodiazepines; Severe Hepatic Insufficiency; Myasthenia Gravis; Severe Respiratory Insufficiency; Sleep Apnoea Syndrome. Patients with severe allergic risk; patients with severe muscle, liver, or respiratory conditions.
Not Generally Recommended Use is not recommended, and its duration must be kept to a minimum. Children/Pediatric Patients.
Special Precaution Required Use requires extra caution due to increased risk of adverse effects or dependence. The Elderly; Individuals with a history of alcohol or drug dependence; Individuals with psychiatric disorders.
Avoided Use is not recommended based on documented risks to the fetus or infant. Pregnant or Breastfeeding women.

Eligibility is officially restricted to Adults who do not have any of the listed contraindications, but the medicine's marketing authorization remains under official suspension for the general patient population.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Myolastan, which contains the active substance tetrazepam, is a benzodiazepine that acts as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Its use with other medications that also depress the CNS can lead to increased sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and potentially fatal complications. Therefore, careful consideration and close medical supervision are essential when combining Myolastan with other products.

Medications that Potentiate CNS Depression

Co-administration with the following drug classes and substances is expected to increase the sedative effects of Myolastan:

  • Other Benzodiazepines and Related Anxiolytics
  • Opioids and other strong pain relievers
  • Antipsychotics and other psychotropic medications
  • Antihistamines that cause drowsiness (H1 antagonists)
  • Barbiturates and other hypnotics or sedatives
  • Alcohol
  • Certain Anticonvulsants
Interaction Type Examples of Interacting Products
Increased Sedation/CNS Depression Alcohol, Opioids, other Benzodiazepines, Antipsychotics, Sedating Antihistamines, Barbiturates.

Other Interactions

Myolastan is metabolized in the liver, partially by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme system, particularly CYP3A4. Medications that inhibit CYP3A4, such as certain antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole) or macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), may reduce the breakdown of tetrazepam, potentially increasing its plasma concentration and enhancing its effects and side effects.

Conversely, CYP3A4 inducers, such as rifampicin or carbamazepine, may increase the breakdown of tetrazepam, potentially reducing its effectiveness.

Mechanism of Action

How Myolastan (Tetrazepam) Works

Tetrazepam's mechanism is defined by its pronounced inhibitory influence within the central nervous system, primarily achieved through the modulation of GABAergic signaling.

Molecular Target: Potentiation of GABAergic Inhibition

The drug functions as a positive allosteric modulator of the GABA-A Receptor Complex. Tetrazepam binds to the benzodiazepine site, amplifying the effect of the inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA. This action increases the frequency of the chloride ion channel opening, leading to a rapid influx of negatively charged chloride ions (Cl^-) into the neuron. This molecular sequence causes neuronal hyperpolarization, a cellular state that decreases the nerve cell's excitability.

Pathway Effect: Dampening of Spinal Reflexes

The central inhibition is channeled into specific physiological systems, predominantly targeting polysynaptic reflexes in the spinal cord. By reducing the overall excitability of interneurons and alpha-motoneurons involved in these arcs, the drug limits the pathological, involuntary excitatory signals stimulating skeletal muscles. This pathway effect produces the core physiological consequence of reducing pathologically elevated muscle tone. The continuous modulation of the receptor system may lead to pharmacodynamic tolerance, an inherent constraint on the stability of the mechanism’s output over time.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Myolastan (Tetrazepam): General Administration Overview

Tetrazepam, a benzodiazepine derivative, is associated with a specific, time-limited application protocol. The descriptive parameters focus on the oral route, gradual dose titration, and restricted duration of use.


Administration Scope

Field Parameters
Route of administration Oral administration.
Dosing schedule Typically initiated at 25 mg to 50 mg daily, with gradual adjustment up to a maximum daily dose of 150 mg.
Timing in relation to meals Tablets require no specific relation to food; the dose timing focuses on the time of day.
Preparation requirements The standard oral tablet formulation (typically 50 mg strength) requires no preparation, dilution, or reconstitution.
Age-group administration rules Older Adults: Associated with a reduced starting dose. Pediatric: Not generally utilized unless under specialist guidance.
Missed-dose rules Not explicitly detailed in the general pharmacological profile.
Special procedural conditions The largest portion of the daily dose is generally taken in the evening or at bedtime to align with the drug’s properties.

Usage Classifications (High-Level)

Field Classification Detail
Administration method type Oral
Frequency pattern Daily, typically in divided doses.
Use-context constraints Application is strictly short-term only, with prolonged or chronic use being avoided.

Resulting Procedural Structure

Common procedural elements:

  • Initial application at a low effective dose, often starting between 25 mg and 50 mg once daily.
  • Gradual adjustment of the dose if necessary, not exceeding the maximum daily dose of 150 mg.
  • Evening administration of the largest component of the total daily dose.
  • Restriction of the overall course to a short-term duration.

Connection to the overall use protocol: The parameters establish a controlled, specific administration profile involving a low starting dose and gradual titration to manage exposure. The regimen is structured by the preference for evening dosing and is defined by a restriction to short-term use, framing the application as a time-limited intervention.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Myolastan (Tetrazepam)


Evidence for Use in Painful Muscle Contractures

Research exploring Tetrazepam has focused on measurements of short-term change in symptoms. Studies conducted during periods of increased symptom activity examined its role in conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations, such as low back or neck pain. These were typically small, short-term double-blind clinical trials that included adult populations. The main outcomes measured were subjective patient reports of change in physical discomfort and clinical measurements of the degree of muscle spasm.

Small clinical trials reported measurements of change in physical discomfort and muscle spasm over the brief study periods, usually lasting around 10 to 15 days. However, systematic analyses of this research have consistently reported that the supporting evidence is limited and based on a small number of participants. Regulatory reviews have also indicated that the overall research base exploring Tetrazepam was not sufficiently robust to establish full certainty regarding the observed patterns.


Evidence for Use in Supportive Management of Muscle Spasticity

Tetrazepam was evaluated in research for its role as supportive management in conditions involving periods of heightened symptoms of muscle stiffness, such as in patients with Multiple Sclerosis. These studies explored how it compared to other active medicines already used to manage spasticity. The outcomes monitored included patient changes in daily functioning or activity level and objective measures of the muscle stiffness itself.

When research was compared to other active treatments, the data showed patterns related to functional changes in the observed populations. However, some studies reported that the findings were mixed or inconclusive. Specifically, findings indicated that patterns observed in Tetrazepam studies were comparable to those observed in studies of other active medicines. The overall evidence was described in regulatory contexts as being not sufficiently robust to firmly support the authorized indications.


Long-Term Studies and Follow-Up

The core clinical trials for Tetrazepam research explored short-term symptom changes, primarily focusing on episodes where symptoms become more noticeable. Consequently, the follow-up durations were limited in the key controlled studies.

Because the initial research periods were brief, there is limited information for long-term outcomes. Research has not fully established or characterized the results of using Tetrazepam over extended periods or whether any observed change in symptoms persists over an extended length of time.


Evidence in Different Populations

The clinical research that served as the primary basis for evaluating Tetrazepam was evaluated in a specific population of adults experiencing either painful contractures or muscle spasticity. These studies provide context on patients experiencing a varying symptom burdens within their conditions.

However, the existing research provides limited insight into its use across other patient demographics. Data for certain groups remain insufficient. For instance, the evidence does not clearly describe the patterns observed in children, pregnant women, or older adults with specific comorbidities, as these groups were not the primary populations examined in the initial clinical trials.


What is Still Uncertain About the Research for Myolastan

The research on Tetrazepam contributes to the broader evidence landscape, but it highlights several areas where certainty remains low. Key limitations include the fact that controlled trials were often of small sample sizes and utilized limited follow-up durations. This means the research provides context but not individual predictions regarding long-term results.

Regulatory evaluations concluded that the effectiveness data compiled for the medicine were not sufficiently robust. This is further complicated by the fact that comparative evidence is lacking or findings were mixed when Tetrazepam was studied for its role compared to other common muscle relaxants. The study results reflect the specific conditions under which they were conducted, and more research is needed to fully characterize its role in a diverse clinical context.

Key Studies & References

  1. [Tetrazepam in the treatment of painful muscle spasms] (Randomized Controlled Trial Summary)
  2. Drug Class Review on Skeletal Muscle Relaxants (Review noting inability to draw reliable conclusions on comparative efficacy of different skeletal muscle relaxants)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Myolastan (FAQ)

Q: What is Myolastan (Tetrazepam) and what was it used for?

Myolastan is the trade name for the active ingredient tetrazepam, which belongs to the benzodiazepine class of medicines. It was primarily used to treat painful muscle spasms and anxiety related to muscle tension. Like other benzodiazepines, it has muscle-relaxant, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), and sedative properties.


Q: Is Myolastan (Tetrazepam) still available for prescription?

In many countries, including the European Union, Myolastan (tetrazepam) has been withdrawn from the market. Regulatory agencies decided to suspend its marketing authorization due to reports of rare but serious skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for alternative treatments.


Q: What is the active ingredient in Myolastan?

The active ingredient in Myolastan is tetrazepam.


Q: What are the common side effects associated with Myolastan?

Common side effects, as seen with many benzodiazepines, often include drowsiness, dizziness, and fatigue. These effects can impair a person's ability to operate machinery or drive. Other possible effects include digestive upset or confusion.

How should Myolastan be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Myolastan (Tetrazepam)

Official regulations require specific conditions to maintain the stability and safety of Myolastan tablets.


Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement (Official Labeling)
Temperature Store below 25 C or 30 C; Do not refrigerate or freeze.
Protection Keep in the original container to protect from light and moisture.
Safety Always store out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Myolastan must be handled as pharmaceutical waste. Do not dispose of the tablets in household trash or flush them down the sink or toilet. The mandatory procedure is to return the product to a local pharmacy or official drug take-back program for safe, environmentally responsible disposal in accordance with local regulations.

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

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