The first new treatment for muscle spasticity in over twenty years reached U.S. pharmacies this spring, following approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in December.
Zanaflex (tizanidine hydrochloride) is an oral drug which reduces MS-related spasticity without reducing muscle strength. This provides people with MS (and their doctors) with an additional option for managing this common and often difficult MS symptom.
Spasticity occurs when there is an increase in involuntary muscle tone. It causes symptoms ranging from mildly unpleasant stiffness to rigidity, immobility, and pain. Serious uncontrolled spasticity can cause contractures (frozen joints) and, eventually, permanent deformities.
Treatments include stretching exercises, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and drugs, especially Lioresal (baclofen) and Valium (diazepam). Zanaflex, the new drug, is marketed by Athena Neurosciences, a subsidiary of the Elan Corporation.
COPYRIGHT 1997 National Multiple Sclerosis Society
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group
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