CDHB

Orphenadrine

or-fen-ah-dreen

What does it do?

Orphenadrine is used to treat muscle spasm, and sometimes other conditions.

Before you start

  • Tell your doctor if you have heart, bladder, prostate or bowel problems, or angle-closure glaucoma.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take orphenadrine regularly as directed with a glass of water. Swallow the tablets whole. You can take it with or without food.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with orphenadrine including:

  • some antihistamines or anti-nausea medicines such as promethazine (e.g. Phenergan®), hyoscine (e.g. Scopoderm®), meclozine (e.g. Sea-legs®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side EffectsRecommended action

Fast or irregular heartbeat

Tell your doctor immediately

Confusion

Tell your doctor

Dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation or trouble peeing (anticholinergic effects)

Dizziness

Nausea, vomiting

Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

  • Orphenadrine can impair your ability to do tasks such as driving or using machines. Alcohol makes this worse. Discuss your risk with your health professional. (search NZTA - Are you safe to drive?)