methocarbamol
Methocarbamol (trade name Robaxin, which is marketed by Actient Pharmaceuticals LLC in the United States and Pfizer in Canada) is a central muscle relaxant used to treat skeletal muscle spasms. It is the carbamate of guaifenesin, but does not produce guaifenesin as a metabolite, since the carbamate bond is not hydrolyzed metabolically; metabolism is by Phase I ring hydroxylation and O-demethylation, followed by Phase II conjugation. All the major metabolites are unhydrolyzed carbamates. Methocarbamol is marketed under different names when presented in combination with other active ingredients. In combination with acetaminophen (Paracetamol), its trade name is Robaxacet, whereas Robax Platinum is the trade name for a formulation of methocarbamol and ibuprofen. A combination of methocarbamol and aspirin is marketed as Robaxisal. Unlike other carbamates such as carisoprodol and meprobamate, Methocarbamol has greatly reduced abuse potential. Studies comparing it to lorazepam (Ativan) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl), along with placebo, find that methocarbamol produces increased 'liking' responses and some sedative-like effects, however, at higher doses dysphoria is reported. It is
tetanus
Tetanus (from Ancient Greek: τέτανος tetanos "taut", and τείνειν teinein "to stretch") is a medical condition characterized by a prolonged contraction of skeletal muscle fibers. The primary symptoms are caused by tetanospasmin, a neurotoxin produced by the Gram-positive, rod-shaped, obligate anaerobic bacterium Clostridium tetani. Infection generally occurs through wound contamination and often involves a cut or deep puncture wound. As the infection progresses, muscle spasms develop in the jaw (thus the name "lockjaw") and elsewhere in the body. Infection can be prevented by proper immunization and by post-exposure prophylaxis. Tetanus often begins with mild spasms in the jaw muscles (lockjaw). The spasms can also affect the chest, neck, back, and abdominal muscles. Back muscle spasms often cause arching, called opisthotonos. Sometimes the spasms affect muscles that help with breathing, which can lead to breathing problems. Prolonged muscular action causes sudden, powerful, and painful contractions of muscle groups. This is called tetany. These episodes can cause fractures and muscle tears. Other symptoms include: • Drooling • Excessive sweating • Fever • Hand or foot spasms •
opiate
An opioid is a psychoactive chemical that works by binding to opioid receptors, which are found principally in the central and peripheral nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. The receptors in these organ systems mediate both the beneficial effects and the side effects of opioids. Opioids are among the world's oldest known drugs; the use of the opium poppy for its therapeutic benefits predates recorded history. The analgesic (painkiller) effects of opioids are due to decreased perception of pain, decreased reaction to pain as well as increased pain tolerance. The side effects of opioids include sedation, respiratory depression, constipation, and a strong sense of euphoria. Opioids can cause cough suppression, which can be both an indication for opioid administration or an unintended side effect. Opioid dependence can develop with ongoing administration, leading to a withdrawal syndrome with abrupt discontinuation. Opioids are well known for their ability to produce a feeling of euphoria, motivating some to recreationally use opioids. Although the term opiate is often used as a synonym for opioid, the term opiate is properly limited to the natural alkaloids found in the