Although Flexeril is allegedly not addictive, similar to how many antidepressants are not considered addictive, the drug is designed to induce relaxation in the body. People who abuse Flexeril do so to achieve a sense of calm and relaxing sleepiness.
Additionally, at high doses, the drug can disrupt some neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to mental and physical impairment that is like being intoxicated.
Allegedly, intoxication from Flexeril causes a sensation of floating outside of one’s body and feeling extremely relaxed. Very high doses of the drug can induce hallucinations.
People who purchase illicit Flexeril refer to the drug as cyclone or mellow yellow because the pills are yellow in color.
The DAWN Report, which tracks emergency room treatment related to substance abuse, noted an 87 percent increase in the number of people admitted to the ER for Flexeril abuse – from 6,183 in 2004 to 11,151 in 2011. The DEA notes that an increase in anecdotal reports online suggest that people abusing Flexeril mix the drug with other substances to enhance psychoactive effects from the other drugs. Polydrug abuse is very dangerous and increases the risk of overdose.
Side Effects from Flexeril
If a person is abusing Flexeril, they are more likely to experience side effects from the drug since they are consuming large quantities in order to get high.
Side effects from Flexeril include:
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- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Constipation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
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People who take too much Flexeril, or abuse the drug for nonmedical reasons, are at a greater risk of overdosing on the substance. Signs of overdose include seizures, depressed breathing, unusual or reduced motor function, and amnesia.
When Flexeril is mixed with other CNS depressants, especially alcohol, the medication’s dangerous side effects are more likely to occur.
High doses of Flexeril can lead to irregular heartbeat and depressed breathing, which can be very dangerous. These conditions can cause lasting physical damage, especially if the person does not receive emergency medical attention quickly enough.
A person who has taken a large amount of Flexeril will appear drowsy, physically floppy, or relaxed. Their pupils may be dilated, breathing could be slow or shallow, and the skin may be cold or pale. If the person is awake, they may appear confused or drunk, with trouble balancing and slurred speech.