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.