5.1 Hypotension 

Tizanidine is an α2-adrenergic agonist that can produce hypotension. Syncope has been reported in the post marketing setting. The chance of significant hypotension may possibly be minimized by titration of the dose and by focusing attention on signs and symptoms of hypotension prior to dose advancement. In addition, patients moving from a supine to fixed upright position may be at increased risk for hypotension and orthostatic effects.

Monitor for hypotension when Tizanidine Tablets, USP is used in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive therapy. It is not recommended that Tizanidine Tablets, USP be used with other α2-adrenergic agonists. Clinically significant hypotension (decreases in both systolic and diastolic pressure) has been reported with concomitant administration of either fluvoxamine or ciprofloxacin and single doses of 4 mg of Tizanidine Tablets, USP. Therefore, concomitant use of Tizanidine Tablets, USP with fluvoxamine or with ciprofloxacin, potent inhibitors of CYP1A2, is contraindicated [see Contraindications (4)andDrug Interactions (Error! Hyperlink reference not valid., Error! Hyperlink reference not valid.)].

5.2 Risk of Liver Injury 

Tizanidine Tablets, USP may cause hepatocellular liver injury. Tizanidine Tablets, USP should be used with caution in patients with any hepatic impairment. Monitoring of aminotransferase levels is recommended for baseline and 1 month after maximum dose is achieved, or if hepatic injury is suspected. [see Dosage and Administration (Error! Hyperlink reference not valid.) and Use in Specific Populations (8.7)]  
  
5.3 Sedation 

Tizanidine Tablets, USP can cause sedation, which may interfere with everyday activity. In the multiple dose studies, the prevalence of patients with sedation peaked following the first week of titration and then remained stable for the duration of the maintenance phase of the study. The CNS depressant effects of Tizanidine Tablets, USP with alcohol and other CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, tricyclic antidepressants) may be additive. Monitor patients who take Tizanidine Tablets, USP with another CNS depressant for symptoms of excess sedation. [see Drug Interactions (Error! Hyperlink reference not valid., Error! Hyperlink reference not valid.)] 

5.4 Hallucinosis/Psychotic-Like Symptoms 

Tizanidine Tablets, USP use has been associated with hallucinations. Formed, visual hallucinations or delusions have been reported in 5 of 170 patients (3%) in two North American controlled clinical studies. Most of the patients were aware that the events were unreal. One patient developed psychosis in association with the hallucinations. One patient among these 5 continued to have problems for at least 2 weeks following discontinuation of tizanidine. Consider discontinuing Tizanidine Tablets, USP in patients who develop hallucinations.

5.5 Interaction with CYP1A2 Inhibitors 

Because of potential drug interactions, Tizanidine Tablets, USP is contraindicated in patients taking potent CYP1A2 inhibitors, such as fluvoxamine or ciprofloxacin. Adverse reactions such as hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness can occur when Tizanidine Tablets, USP is taken with other CYP1A2 inhibitors, such as zileuton, fluoroquinolones other than ciprofloxacin (which is contraindicated), antiarrythmics (amiodarone, mexiletine, propafenone), cimetidine, famotidine, oral contraceptives, acyclovir, and ticlopidine). Concomitant use should be avoided unless the necessity for Tizanidine Tablets, USP therapy is clinically evident. In such a case, use with caution. [see Drug Interactions (Error! Hyperlink reference not valid.) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]

5.6 Hypersensitivity Reactions 

Tizanidine Tablets, USP can cause anaphylaxis. Signs and symptoms including respiratory compromise, urticaria, and angioedema of the throat and tongue have been reported. Patients should be informed of the signs and symptoms of severe allergic reactions and instructed to discontinue Tizanidine Tablets, USP and seek immediate medical care should these signs and symptoms occur. [see Contraindications (4)] 

5.7 Increased Risk of Adverse Reactions in Patients with Renal Impairment 

Tizanidine Tablets, USP should be used with caution in patients with renal insufficiency (creatinine clearance < 25 mL/min), as clearance is reduced by more than 50%. In these patients, during titration, the individual doses should be reduced. If higher doses are required, individual doses rather than dosing frequency should be increased. These patients should be monitored closely for the onset or increase in severity of the common adverse events (dry mouth, somnolence, asthenia and dizziness) as indicators of potential overdose. [see Dosage and Administration (Error! Hyperlink reference not valid.) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)] 

5.8 Withdrawal Adverse Reactions 

Withdrawal adverse reactions include rebound hypertension, tachycardia, and hypertonia. To minimize the risk of these reactions, particularly in patients who have been receiving high doses (20 to 28 mg daily) for long periods of time (9 weeks or more) or who may be on concomitant treatment with narcotics, the dose should be decreased slowly (2 to 4 mg per day). [see Dosage and Administration (Error! Hyperlink reference not valid.)]