Tizanidine

Muscle relaxant
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Tizanidine is a muscle relaxant found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Zerodol-MR. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Relaxes tight, painful muscles, for example in back and neck pain.

How it works

A muscle relaxant for spasticity (MS, spinal injury) and painful muscle spasm.

How to take it

Usually 2 to 4 mg up to three times a day, increased slowly; take consistently with or without food.

Common side effects

  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Low blood pressure

Get medical help straight away if

  • Fainting
  • Yellow skin
  • Hallucinations

Be careful

Causes drowsiness and low blood pressure; avoid alcohol.

Other medicines and interactions

Must not be taken with ciprofloxacin or fluvoxamine (dangerous rise in level). The combined pill raises its level. More drowsiness with alcohol.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Not recommended in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Combination medicines that contain Tizanidine (1)

Zerodol-MR

Common questions

What is Tizanidine used for?

Relaxes tight, painful muscles, for example in back and neck pain.

How does Tizanidine work?

A muscle relaxant for spasticity (MS, spinal injury) and painful muscle spasm.

How should I take Tizanidine?

Usually 2 to 4 mg up to three times a day, increased slowly; take consistently with or without food.

What are the side effects of Tizanidine?

Common: Drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, weakness, low blood pressure. Get help straight away for: Fainting, yellow skin, hallucinations.

Does Tizanidine interact with other medicines?

Must not be taken with ciprofloxacin or fluvoxamine (dangerous rise in level). The combined pill raises its level. More drowsiness with alcohol.

Is Tizanidine safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Not recommended in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Does Tizanidine need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Tizanidine?

Zerodol-MR.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.