DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sajp.2026.v15i06.002

Pages: 138-145

Skeletal muscle relaxants (myorelaxants) are a group of chemical compounds that act both centrally and peripherally and have the ability to relax skeletal muscle, which reduces muscle contractility by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses, or by decreasing the excitability of the motor end plate, or by other actions. Periferial myorelaxants (neuromuscular blockers) (Atracurium, Doxa-curium, Mivacurium, Pancuronium, Rocuronium, Succinylcholine, Tubocurarine, Vecuronium) block neuromuscular junction function. Muscle relaxants cause relaxation of striated (voluntary skeletal) musculature (in contrast to spasmolytics which relax unstriped musculature). Muscle relaxants are used to treat muscle pain, spasms, cramps, chronic spasticity, such as in multiple sclerosis, and are used during intubations and surgery to reduce the need for anesthesia and facilitate intubation. Centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxants are commonly indicated to alleviate two different conditions: muscular pain or spasms and spasticity in neuromuscular diseases. Methocarbamol as a muscle relaxant is used in the symptomatic treatment of musculoskeletal conditions associated with painful muscle spasms. Mechanisms of action of Methocarbamol include: depression of central nervous system, inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, and direct activation of GABA-A receptor. Clinical advantages of using Methocarbamol are: effective muscle relaxation, non-narcotic option, and versatile use. Sinergistic effect is obtained in combination of Methocarbamol with Paracetamol.