Methocarbamol addictive
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Methocarbamol and Its Potential for Addiction
Introduction to Methocarbamol
Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant commonly prescribed to alleviate discomfort associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions. While it is generally considered to have a low potential for abuse, its effects on individuals with a history of substance abuse warrant closer examination.
Behavioral and Subjective Effects of Methocarbamol
Study on Recreational Substance Abusers
Research has investigated the subjective and behavioral effects of methocarbamol in individuals with histories of recreational substance abuse, including sedative/hypnotics. In a study involving adult male volunteers, methocarbamol was administered in varying doses (up to 12 grams) to determine its effects compared to lorazepam and a placebo1. The results indicated that methocarbamol, at high doses, produced significant increases in subjects' ratings of drug effect and liking, similar to lorazepam. However, methocarbamol also led to the emergence of dysphoric and other side effects at these high doses, which could potentially limit its abuse potential1.
Comparative Study with Diphenhydramine and Lorazepam
Another study compared the effects of methocarbamol with diphenhydramine and lorazepam in a similar cohort of volunteers with histories of substance abuse. This randomized, double-blind crossover study found that methocarbamol increased subjects' ratings of drug effect and liking, as well as measures of sedation, but it caused only minor impairment of psychomotor and cognitive performance2. In contrast, lorazepam produced more significant increases in drug effect and liking, along with greater impairment of psychomotor performance2. Diphenhydramine, while increasing ratings of drug effect and sedation, produced fewer positive mood measures and more adverse effects, indicating a lower abuse liability2.
Conclusion
The research suggests that methocarbamol has some potential for abuse, particularly at doses higher than those typically used therapeutically. However, the accompanying side effects at these high doses may reduce its attractiveness to potential abusers. Compared to lorazepam, methocarbamol appears to have a lower potential for abuse, but it is still significant enough to warrant caution, especially in individuals with a history of substance abuse1 2. Further studies are needed to fully understand the abuse liability of methocarbamol and to develop guidelines for its safe use.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Evaluation of the abuse potential of methocarbamol.
Methocarbamol has some potential for abuse at high doses, but this potential is likely decreased by accompanying side effects and is less than that of lorazepam.
RCTSubjective and behavioral effects of diphenhydramine, lorazepam and methocarbamol: evaluation of abuse liability.
Diphenhydramine has fewer positive mood effects and more adverse effects than lorazepam and methocarbamol, with low abuse liability.
RCTA fatal methocarbamol intoxication.
Methocarbamol intoxication can result in blood concentrations of 525 mg/L and 140 mg/dL ethanol, leading to fatal outcomes.
Case ReportMethocarbamol use is associated with decreased hospital length of stay in trauma patients with closed rib fractures.
Methocarbamol use in trauma patients with closed rib fractures may result in a shorter hospital stay.
Observational StudyA fatal interaction of methocarbamol and ethanol in an accidental poisoning.
Ingestion of methocarbamol and ethanol can cause fatal central nervous system depression due to their interactive sedative-hypnotic properties.
Case ReportAbstract WMP64: Increased Risk Of Adverse Outcomes With Methocarbamol Versus Cyclobenzaprine Use In Medication Naïve Acute Stroke Patients
Methocarbamol use in acute stroke patients is associated with increased 30-day risk of adverse outcomes compared to Cyclobenzaprine, regardless of age.
Randomized-controlled trial of methocarbamol as a novel treatment for muscle cramps in cirrhotic patients
Methocarbamol is a promising, safe, and well-tolerated medication for treating muscle cramps in patients with liver cirrhosis.
RCT
Rigorous JournalDistribution and metabolism of methocarbamol.
Methocarbamol is widely distributed in the body and can cross the placenta into the fetus, with kidneys and liver being main routes of excretion.
Non-RCT
Animal StudyEfficacy of Methocarbamol for Acute Pain Management in Young Adults With Traumatic Rib Fractures
Methocarbamol addition to pain control regimens significantly reduces daily opioid requirements and hospital stay duration in young adults with traumatic rib fractures.
Observational Study