Kitty - Flexeril™ (cyclobenzaprine) is a skeletal muscle relaxant that is closely related to the tricylic antidepressants (TCAs - like Elavil™ [amitriptyline]). The manufacturer recommends that it not be used for more than 2 weeks in a row. I think that this is more of a legal statement, than being a real pharmacological concern. Basically, what the company is saying is that there is no conclusive long term data or studies published on the use of Flexeril in sleeping. I have heard of a number of people with bad backs use the drug almost every night, to loosen muscles so that they can get to sleep.

I do believe that one can build a tolerance to the sedating effects of Flexeril. So, while it would work as a hypnotic in the short run, the sedating effects of the drug lessen with time.

Also, adding Flexeril to Xanax™ (alprazolam), or most any CNS depressant, causes an increase in sedation. There is an additive sedative effect when using the two drugs together.

I hope that this helps. - Cam

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