What is "methocarbamol"

n. A central muscle relaxant, the carbamate of guaifenesin, used to treat skeletal muscle spasms.

n. muscle relaxant for skeletal muscles (trade name Robaxin) used to treat spasms [syn: Robaxin]

Methocarbamol is a central muscle relaxant used to treat skeletal muscle spasms. Under the trade name Robax, it is marketed by Actient Pharmaceuticals in the United States and Pfizer in Canada. The mechanism of action of methocarbamol is currently unknown, but may involve the inhibition of carbonic anhydrase. The muscle relaxant effects of methocarbamol are largely attributed to central depressant effects; however, peripheral effects of methocarbamol to prolong muscle refractory period have also been reported. As with guaifenesin, inhibition of the NMDA receptor may be involved in the effects of methocarbamol. As of 2015 the cost for a typical month of medication in the United States is less than 25 USD.