Is Cyclobenzaprine Addictive? Risks, Dependence, Signs of Misuse & Safe Use Guide

If you or a loved one has been prescribed cyclobenzaprine, you may be concerned about the possibility of developing an addiction to it. 

Cyclobenzaprine is usually prescribed to treat acute muscular spasms [1] that are caused by injuries and musculoskeletal disorders. It is available as oral tablets and extended-release capsules. Cyclobenzaprine acts on the central nervous system, specifically the brain and spinal cord, to reduce muscle tension and discomfort.

Cyclobenzaprine is not classified as a controlled substance by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and it is not physically addictive in the same way that opioids and benzodiazepines are addictive. However, some patients may develop a pattern of misuse of or psychological dependence on cyclobenzaprine when they take it for longer than prescribed or at greater doses than prescribed.

This article will discuss how addiction, dependence, and misuse differ, some of the things that can cause people to misuse cyclobenzaprine, how to identify signs of misuse, and how to safely use cyclobenzaprine.

What Is Cyclobenzaprine?

Cyclobenzaprine is prescribed as a muscle relaxant for acute injury. Cyclobenzaprine is classified as a centrally acting skeletal muscle [2] relaxant, and the way it works is that it alters nerve signals in the brain, causing decreased muscular hyperactivity and muscular relaxation.

Because cyclobenzaprine acts on the central nervous system, it can cause drowsiness and sedation. It is usually dosed three times a day, for no more than three weeks. Research shows that there is no additional benefit after three weeks, but misuse and dependence increase. 

Addiction vs. Dependence vs. Misuse

By understanding what addiction, dependence, and misuse of cyclobenzaprine mean, you will have a better understanding of what you can expect if you begin taking it.

Addiction is a behavioral pattern that involves the compulsive behavior of seeking [3] and using a drug, despite it causing negative consequences for the user.  

Dependence occurs when the body has adapted to the presence of cyclobenzaprine. When your body is dependent upon cyclobenzaprine, stopping the medication suddenly [2] will cause withdrawal symptoms.

Misuse is defined as taking a medication in a manner other than as prescribed. Using cyclobenzaprine at higher doses, longer than prescribed, or for purposes other than what your doctor intended are all examples of misuse.

Even though cyclobenzaprine is not a controlled substance, it has dependence, misuse, and addiction potential.

How Misuse Can Lead to Psychological Dependence and Addiction

Some people may misuse cyclobenzaprine because they enjoy the calming or sedating effect. Prolonged misuse of cyclobenzaprine [4] can lead to the development of a psychological dependency. For example, an individual may feel they need to take cyclobenzaprine to relax, to sleep, and/or to cope with distress or emotional pain.

Withdrawal and Dependence Symptoms

If cyclobenzaprine is taken for an extended period, stopping suddenly may lead to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. These can include nausea, headache, irritability, or malaise, which is a vague feeling of discomfort [1] often involving fatigue and low motivation. While not typically dangerous, these symptoms can be distressing and should be managed with medical guidance.

Prescription Use vs. Abuse

When cyclobenzaprine is used short-term (no more than three weeks), the risk of addiction is generally low. Dependence is more likely when the medication is taken longer than recommended, at higher doses, or without medical supervision.

Using cyclobenzaprine along with alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines (such as diazepam) increases the risk of misuse. Mixing CNS depressants [5] increases the risk of respiratory depression, which is shallow, slow breathing that can reduce oxygen levels in the body. It’s a medical emergency.

Risk Factors for Misuse

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of misuse, including a prior history of a substance use disorder, co-occurring mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, or using the drug for emotional distress. [3]  Attempts to use cyclobenzaprine recreationally or for sleep can also increase the risk of misuse.

Physical and Psychological Signs of Misuse

Behavioral Patterns

The following behaviors may indicate misuse of cyclobenzaprine: 

• Continuing to use beyond the prescribed time frame
• Increasing doses without consulting a doctor
• Difficulty stopping the medication even though one wants to stop 
• Spending an inordinate amount of time thinking [4] about their next dose or refills.
• Seeing multiple doctors to get prescriptions
• Hiding use or isolating to use
• Failing to meet responsibilities at work or school due 
• Experiencing problems in relationships

Central Nervous System Effects

Typical side effects of cyclobenzaprine include drowsiness, dizziness, and sedation. The sedation when starting treatment may encourage someone to misuse cyclobenzaprine to help cope with emotional or mental distress.

How to Use Cyclobenzaprine Safely

To use cyclobenzaprine safely, the patient must take the medication according to their prescriber’s orders, not exceed the recommended dose or the prescribed course of treatment, and avoid consuming alcohol and other CNS depressants unless advised explicitly by their prescribing provider.

The patient should discuss any prolonged use of cyclobenzaprine beyond the initially prescribed period with their healthcare provider. The healthcare provider may recommend gradually tapering down the dosages over a specified time frame to minimize withdrawal discomfort. Physical therapy and nonpharmacologic pain relief methods may be useful.

When to Seek Help

Signs that you need assistance for cyclobenzaprine misuse, whether from a healthcare provider or therapeutic support, may include being unable to stop using the medication, increasing dosages to achieve the same or a greater level of sedation, or exhibiting withdrawal symptoms when no longer taking the drug. Seeking assistance at any of these stages is advisable. Having an open discussion with your healthcare [1] provider about your misuse is a critical first step in receiving help.

In Cherry Hill, New Jersey, there is help available for individuals experiencing substance abuse or mental health issues that often overlap. At The Garden, we employ a comprehensive, individualized approach that includes partial care, intensive outpatient treatment programs, dual diagnosis treatment, family therapies, group therapies, individualized therapies, and trauma-informed therapies. Recovery does not have to be faced alone; support is available to you.

Conclusion

While cyclobenzaprine has low potential for developing physical dependence when taken according to the prescribed regimen, the same cannot be said for cyclobenzaprine misuse and psychological dependence. Seeking treatment early, as soon as misuse is recognized, can have a positive influence on potential outcomes. Compassionate and professional assistance is available to those who require or desire it.

Frequently Asked Questions