Dantrium (Dantrolene Sodium) is a muscle relaxer used to treat muscle spasticity (stiffness and spasms) caused by conditions such as a spinal cord injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, or multiple sclerosis. Dantrium is also used to treat or prevent muscle stiffness and spasms caused by malignant hyperthermia (a rapid rise in body temperature and severe muscle contractions) that can occur during surgery with certain types of anaesthesia. Dantrium may also be used for purposes not listed above. Dantrium works by stopping electrical impulses travelling within muscles. It does this by binding to and blocking calcium channels within muscles, which in turn lowers the level of calcium in muscle cells, which effectively prevents muscle contractions This contrast with most other spasticity drugs that work by preventing or inhibiting the way the brain and spinal cord communicate through the nerves with the rest of the body.
Manufacturer Information
Canadian Pharmacy King currently offers the brand Dantrium from the United Kingdom manufactured by Norgine Pharmaceuticals and from Canada by Paladin. Dantrium is available in the strength of 25 mg and 100 mg capsules and 20 mg powder for injection (6 x 70 ml) vials.
The common side effects of Dantrium may include dizziness, drowsiness, diarrhea, or weakness. Talk to your doctor if these side effects persist or become severe. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice more serious side effects such as:
• Light-headedness;
• Painful or difficult urination;
• Problems with vision or speech;
• Severe drowsiness;
• Severe muscle weakness;
• Severe or ongoing vomiting or diarrhea;
• Seizures;
• Signs of liver problems;
• Weak or shallow breathing
These side effects may be most likely to occur between 3 and 12 months of your treatment with Dantrium. If you show any signs of an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical attention.
You should not use Dantrium if you are allergic to dantrolene, or if you have active liver disease such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. To make sure Dantrium is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had liver disease, heart disease or a heart attack, or a breathing disorder known as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). It is unknown whether this medication will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not breastfeed while using this medication. You may be more likely to develop liver problems while using Dantrium if you are a woman, if you are older than 35, or if you also take other medications. Ask your doctor about your individual risk.
Do not take Dantrium at a time when you may need muscle tone for safe balance and movement doing certain activities. In some situations, it may be dangerous for you to have reduced muscle tone. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how Dantrium will affect you, as your reactions may be impaired. Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Dantrium can make you sunburn more easily. Dantrium is not approved for use in children younger than 5 years old. Dantrium may interact with several medications, especially heart or blood pressure medication, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or hormonal birth control (pills, injections, implants, skin patches, or vaginal rings). This is not a complete list of possible interactions. Tell your doctor about any medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements you are currently taking or have recently taken in order to reduce the risk of any possible interactions.
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