When muscle spasms (rapid involuntary contractions of the muscle) accompany back or bone pain, doctors often prescribe muscle relaxants. Muscle relaxants include a variety of drugs that have an overall sedative effect on the body. Muscle relaxants are typically prescribed early in treatment. They are usually taken on a short-term basis.

Common muscle relaxants include:

• Carisoprodol (Soma)
• Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)
• Diazepam (Valium)

Some muscle relaxants may be habit-forming. Many have major side effects. It is important for your doctor to monitor you while taking these drugs. Be sure to report any unusual symptoms to your doctor right away.

To learn more about these and other drugs and their side effects, go to
Medline Plus drug information.