Do Muscle Relaxers Cause Constipation? Here’s What Really Happens to Your Body!

Wondering if your muscle relaxer is slowing things down? Get the facts on constipation, why it happens, and how to manage it, especially if you’re in recovery.

What Are Muscle Relaxers and Why Are They Prescribed?

Muscle relaxers are prescription medications used to relieve pain, stiffness, and spasms in the muscles. These medications are commonly prescribed after injuries, surgeries, or for chronic conditions like fibromyalgia or sciatica.

Some of the most widely used muscle relaxers include:

• Cyclobenzaprine
  
• Baclofen
  
• Carisoprodol
  
• Methocarbamol
  

They’re often included in pain management plans as a non-opioid alternative. For individuals in recovery, these medications can offer relief without the immediate risk of euphoria, but they still require medical supervision. Misuse, especially as a way to cope with stress or discomfort, can lead to bigger issues.

How Muscle Relaxers Affect Your Body And Your Gut

Most muscle relaxers work by calming the central nervous system. They reduce nerve signals that cause muscles to tighten up. While this helps the body feel less tense, it also slows everything else down, including your digestion.

This is why the answer to do muscle relaxers cause constipation is often yes. The slower nerve signals don’t just reach the muscles in your back or legs; they also reduce contractions in your intestines. Fewer contractions mean waste moves more slowly through the digestive tract, which can lead to uncomfortable buildup.

Certain types of muscle relaxers are more likely to cause this effect. For example, cyclobenzaprine constipation is common due to its anticholinergic effects, which block the action of acetylcholine, a chemical that helps muscles (including those in your gut) contract and function properly.

Why Do Muscle Relaxers Cause Constipation?

The issue usually comes down to anticholinergic effects. These effects interfere with the way your nerves communicate with your digestive system, causing:

• Slower bowel movements
  
• Hard, dry stools
  
• A higher chance of irregularity

Different muscle relaxers come with different levels of constipation risk, depending on how they interact with the nervous system and digestive tract. Cyclobenzaprine, for example, carries a high risk due to its strong anticholinergic properties and central nervous system (CNS) depressant effects. Baclofen is considered moderate in terms of risk. It acts as a CNS depressant and can slow down gut motility, making bowel movements less frequent.

Carisoprodol falls into the moderate to high-risk range. As a sedative and CNS depressant, it can contribute to sluggish digestion, especially in people who are less active. On the lower end of the spectrum, Methocarbamol typically poses a low to moderate risk. While it still affects the CNS, its impact on gut movement is less severe than others.

That said, no two people react the same way. Your diet, hydration, physical activity, age, and overall health all play a role in how your body handles muscle relaxers. So while these general trends offer guidance, your experience may vary.

Recognizing the Signs: Constipation Symptoms to Watch For

You might be surprised at how quickly digestive issues set in. If you’re taking a muscle relaxer and notice any of the following signs, constipation might be creeping in:

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week
  
• Straining or discomfort during bowel movements
  
• Hard or pebble-like stools
  
• A feeling of fullness, even after using the bathroom
  
• Bloating or cramping that won’t go away
  

These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. While constipation can seem like a minor issue, it can quickly become a barrier to recovery and daily function.

Managing Constipation While Taking Muscle Relaxers

The good news is that most cases are manageable with a few intentional changes. Here are some safe, at-home constipation remedies to consider:

1. Increase fiber with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
   
2. Stay hydrated throughout the day.
   
3. Get moving; even light exercise can help stimulate digestion.
   
4. Use over-the-counter aids like stool softeners, but only after consulting your doctor.
   
5. Avoid self-medicating, especially if you’re in recovery or managing other conditions.
   

Slowing or stopping your medication without professional input is risky. Pain, anxiety, and withdrawal symptoms can quickly pile up, making recovery harder.

Muscle Relaxers, Constipation, and Recovery

For those in recovery, constipation isn’t just a discomfort. It can turn into a trigger. The frustration and anxiety caused by slowed digestion might lead some people to take more medication, skip meals, or relapse into old habits.

Baclofen and digestion, for example, can be an ongoing battle for people who already have sensitive systems. Without support, these physical symptoms can spiral into emotional consequences.

That’s why anyone with a history of substance use should talk openly with providers about side effects. A tailored recovery plan considers every part of your health, including your gut.

Are Muscle Relaxers Addictive? Understanding the Risks

Not all muscle relaxers are habit-forming, but some carry more risk than others. Carisoprodol and diazepam, for example, can cause dependency with regular use.

Here’s what to watch for:

• Needing higher doses to feel the same relief
  
• Using the medication outside of prescribed times
  
• Feeling anxious, restless, or panicked without it
  
• Taking it to manage emotions, not just physical pain
  

Professional oversight matters. With the right structure, muscle relaxers can be used safely but they should never be a solo decision.

When to Seek Help and How Skypoint Recovery Can Support You

If you’re struggling with constipation, discomfort, or medication concerns, it may be time to speak with a provider. This is especially true if you’re in recovery and trying to balance pain relief with your sobriety goals.

Skypoint Recovery in Akron, Ohio offers personalized treatment plans that take into account your physical and emotional health. Whether you’re dealing with muscle relaxer side effects, working through past substance use, or looking for safe ways to manage pain, the team is here to help.

We accept Medicaid insurance and work with individuals to explore financial options. Whether you’re considering PHP, IOP, or sober living, our staff will help you figure out the right path forward.

Ready to Feel Better? Let’s Move Forward Together

So, do muscle relaxers cause constipation? Yes, they can but the right care makes all the difference. With support, awareness, and practical steps, you don’t have to stay stuck.

Call 330-443-6002 or fill out the confidential online form to connect with Skypoint Recovery. Let’s talk about your goals, your comfort, and your future.