In this article, I’m going to teach you how to use methocarbamol for opiate withdrawal. To be sure, this medication is not the best one available for treating acute withdrawal symptoms.
However, if methocarbamol is all you have, it still has the potential to significantly reduce your opiate withdrawal symptoms.
And if you use methocarbamol in combination with other medications for opiate withdrawal, you have the potential to experience a very easy detox.
Many people have asked the question: “Will methocarbamol help with opiate withdrawal?” The answer is not always the same. You see, for some, methocarbamol significantly reduces opiate withdrawal symptoms. For others, it only has mild benefits.
And for others still, methocarbamol provides no benefit at all during the withdrawal process. As individual opioid dependence severity and biochemical makeup differ, so will results using medications.
Methocarbamol For Opiate Withdrawal: Overview
Methocarbamol (brand name Robaxin) is a prescription skeletal muscle relaxant. Methocarbamol is typically prescribed along with rest and physical therapy in the treatment of conditions such as pain, injury, or skeletal muscle spasms. It works by blocking nerve impulses (or pain sensations) that are sent to the brain.
Along with having musculoskeletal relaxant properties, methocarbamol is also a central nervous system (CNS) depressant.
It acts as a sedative, thus relaxing the body and mind. For these reasons, many people have used methocarbamol for opiate withdrawal symptoms.
Using methocarbamol for opiate withdrawal could potentially treat the following symptoms:
- Aching muscles and limbs
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Goosebumps/chills
- Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
- Gastrointestinal (GI) distress
NOTE: This is by no means a complete list of symptoms methocarbamol could possibly treat. Furthermore, individual results can and do vary. Some people might only experience 1-2 of these benefits, while others might experience more or less.
Anecdotal Evidence Using Methocarbamol For Opiate Withdrawal
Unfortunately, I was not able to find a single study using methocarbamol for opiate withdrawal symptoms. With the vast majority of medications I’ve written articles on, I’ve been able to find one or more studies which show the medications having favorable results. Not the case with methocarbamol, though I was still able to find plenty of anecdotal evidence.
For instance, on the website Drugs.com, individuals that used methocarbamol for opiate withdrawal rated it with an average score of 6.7/10. This score was taken from 27 ratings, and 17 of those individuals left reviews.
Many of the reviews stated that methocarbamol worked very well in the treatment of opiate withdrawal.
Furthermore, if you visit various drug forums, you’ll also find anecdotal evidence of people having great success using methocarbamol for opiate withdrawal. I do prefer a combination of research studies and anecdotal evidence to make concrete conclusions, however, at this point in time, the anecdotal evidence appears to be the only information available.
How To Use Methocarbamol For Opiate Withdrawal
If you’re going to use methocarbamol for opiate withdrawal, it’s important to be armed with the right information. One must always exercise caution to ensure the safe and effective use of medications.
The following guidelines should be followed when using methocarbamol for opiate withdrawal:
- Always use methocarbamol under the supervision of a doctor
- Make sure you thoroughly review the possible methocarbamol side effects and interactions
- Only use methocarbamol for a few days to a week to treat the most severe symptoms
- Use the smallest dose as is necessary to reduce opiate withdrawal symptoms
- Prolonged daily use of methocarbamol can lead to a dependence, and once this happens, the abrupt cessation of the drug can result in a withdrawal syndrome
- Though methocarbamol has a low addiction-potential, it’s important to note that it can become addictive
The following are methocarbamol dosing guidelines (adult usage for muscle spasm), which I’ve quoted directly from Drugs.com:
Oral:
Initial dose: 1500 mg four times a day for the first 48 to 72 hours, up to a maximum dosage of 8 g/day for severe symptoms.
Maintenance dose: 4000 to 4500 mg/day in divided doses.IV or IM:
1000 mg up to every 8 hours if necessary, not to exceed 3 g/day for more than 3 consecutive days except in the treatment of tetanus. A like course may be repeated after a lapse of 48 hours if the condition persists. Oral therapy should be instituted as soon as possible. For symptoms of moderate severity, oral doses may be adequate after one injection if patient can tolerate oral medications.”
Methocarbamol For Opiate Withdrawal: Key Concepts
Here is a summary of the main concepts regarding the use of methocarbamol for opiate withdrawal:
- Many people have benefited from the use of methocarbamol for opiate withdrawal symptoms
- Some individuals have had no benefits, or even bad reactions while using methocarbamol for opiate withdrawal
- Methocarbamol has not been studied in the treatment of opiate withdrawal, but there is some anecdotal evidence available online stating that it can help
- It’s not the best medication available for treating the withdrawal syndrome, however, it can offer a lot of help for some individuals – especially when combined with other medications
For people that can’t use methocarbamol, or choose not to use medications for fear of side effects and/or addiction, there are natural alternatives that may help. Many individuals going through opiate withdrawal have obtained relief from anxiety and insomnia, as well as many other symptoms, by using a popular Opiate Withdrawal Supplement.
It’s a bit expensive and not available in stores (you have to order it online), but despite these challenges, getting yourself a 30-day supply of this powerful opiate withdrawal supplement might be just what you need to help you get your life back on track.
If you can afford it, I also highly recommend taking this awesome supplement, because the benefits are just too good to pass up.
Click here now to view my best home detox program.
If you have any questions or comments about the use of methocarbamol for opiate withdrawal, please post them in the comment box below.
I cannot believe how effective methocarbamol (robaxin) can be for all types of withdrawal. Only thing is, you have to take it in much higher doses then usually prescribed – I am not a doctor and take my say with a grain of salt. After doing more research, it looks like 24 grams in a 24 hour period is the lda. Taking 2,000mgs – 2g’s – every 4 hours completely alleviated benzo and opioid withdrawal. Some mental symptoms are still present, but all in all I feel extremely good, energetic, pain-free, restless leg free, sweat free, and oh because I had nothing else to take but robaxin. Once again, this is only anecdotal, first-hand experience from me. Good luck
Thanks for sharing your experience using methocarbamol for withdrawal. You had great results and I’m really grateful you’ve commented here about how it helped you.
what is kratom? caron
Caron,
Here is a quote from Matt’s article on HOW TO USE KRATOM FOR OPIATE WITHDRAWAL:
“I finally learned about kratom for opiate withdrawal from a patient of mine that had used it to get off methadone in the past.
I started researching it, and the things I learned blew my mind.
Here was a beautiful tree (member of the coffee family) that was not regulated by the Drug Enforcement Agency in the United States (making it legal), which had mu-opioid agonist qualities (like morphine), that could without a doubt help anyone ease their opiate withdrawal symptoms naturally. ”
You can read the article here:
https://opiateaddictionsupport.com/how-to-use-kratom-for-opiate-withdrawal/
~Mary
OAS RECOVERY SPECIALIST
I am getting off fentanyl patches. I have been on them for over 10 years. My doctor is decreasing my patches 12mgs.every month but I am still suffering terrible withdrawal symptoms. Someone pleasemail tell me what I can use for withdraws. How much chlonodine can I take and how many mgs. Each time.
Rose Ann,
Check out the article: http://www.opiateaddictionsupport.com/how-to-use-clonidine-for-opiate-withdrawal/
I would start with taking dlpa. This supplement helps promote dopamine. Dopamine is produced by of the amount of opiates we are used to giving ourselves. Since the opiates caused an increase in dopamine, more dopamine receptors popped up to “catch” it. When we cause less dopamine to be produced (less opiates), those receptors are sort of wreaking havoc all over our body since they aren’t getting enough of the “feel good” neurotransmitter, dopamine. (I hope you understand my reasoning, I’m not as well-spoken as Matt). These supplements promote dopamine: DLPA, L-Tyrosine, L-Dopa, Mucuna Pruriens. There are others. Taking supplements isnt the only way to promote dopamine. Exercising, Sex, Meditation, even eating Dark Chocolate! You need to be getting plenty of protein at this time, because it takes protein for the brain to make dopamine. The minerals Magnesium and Zinc are also important for brain repair from opiate use.
I know that there are symptoms that are more bothersome than others and it can be different for each person. Where my worst symptom may be RLS, your worst symptom may be anxiety. There are herbs for almost every symptom. You can find a great compilation of nutrients and herbs in withdrawal formulas on the market. Using Calm Support will help with the symptoms.
If purchasing these formulas is not for you, here are some suggestions: 1. Definitely ask Dr for Clonidine 2. Start a dopamine producing supplement already mentioned; as well as adding exercise and protein (along with a healthy diet) 3. Start a good multi-vitamin (many of these nutrients are needed for your brain to make the necessary neurotransmitters lacking from opiate use or withdrawal) 4. **Only if you are not already on an antidepressant that is an SSRI** Consider using 5htp for anxiety and depression caused from lack of serotonin. 5. Consider these supplements or otc medicines: [For Insomnia & Anxiety] an antihistamine (such as Benadryl), Valarian Root, Passionflower 6. Ask your Dr. for prescription help for the most overpowering symptoms if necessary.
I will add. The prescription medications that many Drs. have begun to use to help patients with opiate withdrawal are Gabapentin (Neurontin) or Pregabalin (Lyrica). You should discuss this with your Dr. Also, have you talked with your Dr. about his/her taper plan? Many will use a quick taper, to see if the patient can handle it. Most times this taper is simply too fast. Become very pro-active in evading too much withdrawal and work together (if you have a good Dr. who listens to his patients) on this. Hopefully your Dr’s plans are to get you to a low amount of fentanyl and then switch you to a less potent opiate to finish the taper.
Good Luck on your taper and check back in to let us know how you are doing.
~Mary
OAS Certified Recovery Specialist
*Disclaimer: Any suggestions for medications, supplements or herbs should not be considered medical advice. Please discuss these and exercise regimes with your Dr. Please Follow the medical advice from your Dr.
Hello, If I purchase and use Cam support is it recommended to use these other supplements or herbs at the same time? DLPA, L-Tyrosine, L-Dopa, Mucuna Pruriens. 5htp, 5. Consider these Valarian Root, Passionflower
Hi everyone
I am ex methdone user trying to stop after 15 years but it’s so hard even with gabapentin x300 twice daily I still get flushes feel really low and depressed but some times I feel I can do this I am on day 8 but still feel bad I am trying to eat and drink health. I am scared not sure when withdrawels symptoms going to end.
I know exactly how you feel, Ruby. I have been on heroin, methadone and suboxone at different times over a ten year span and by far the worst withdrawal I ever had was on methadone. That stuff is the devil! First thing, you are not taking enough gabapentin, you need about 900mgs at a time. Secondly, BUY KRATOM!!! Kratom is a miracle herb that helps soooooooo much!! Nothing like it. You can buy it online or at any herb shop. Lots of people prefer the Red Bali, but I like the Green Bali personally. Its all personal choice, but stay away from the White because it is more like a stimulant. Don’t give up, I know it sucks so bad and no one can understand unless they have been through it too.
Red Borneo, which is commonly recommended for pain, is a great choice for withdrawal to help fight the aches & pains. Green Bali or Green Malay worked very well, for me, to combat the anxiety and depression. I agree that staying away from white kratom is for the best. There are some good YouTube videos about using kratom to fight withdrawal from methadone. I too think that upping the amount of gabapentin is worth a try BUT (!) this can lead to dependence & even a new addiction. Alternating the higher doses of gabapentin with kratom and higher doses of immodium (loperamide) is what I would recommend
I’ve never hear of Gabapentin being addictive and my Doc assured me of that. GABA is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter made in the body. As everyone is different, I’ve found that loperamide can most definitely be addictive for people. Personally, it does nothing for me. I highly suggest a Kratom taper, it really helped me.
Erin,
Gabapentin (neurontin) & Gaba are two different things.
Gabapentin is a medication that was designed primarily for epilepsy, however it also works for neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, some Dr’s prescribe it as a mood stabilizer and it also has analgesic properties.
Gaba (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is one of the 4 primary neurotransmitters appearing naturally in the brain. The main role of Gaba is to promote relaxation and inhibit excitation in the brain.
While many of the effects of Gabapentin are similar to the effects of Gaba, scientists don’t believe they act on the same receptors. The names being so similar has caused people to identify the two as the same…..I vote they change the name of one of them! ?
I know the feeling. It’s hard, and the more family you have the better. I have none here. I have my kids, but its not the same. Also the mental partnis the worst. I dont want to work.
hey! I wasn’t on methadone for as long as you were but I took 120mgs a day for 4 years. I came off 3 months ago and haven’t been well yet. I hate to see someone else sick like my husband and I are. I know how absolutely horrible it is. im not throwing up anymore but the aches and pains in my legs and constant sweating make me feel horrible! hang in there, after all, you definitely don’t want to ever have to start over.
Hi Matt, just want to start out by saying that your site is so helpful and one of the only intelligent discussion places for addiction and withdrawal on the web. As for the Robaxin, I was given it every time I went into detox as part of the standard opiate withdrawal protocol. It does help with those pesky leg muscle aches and RLS but that is about it. I am not trying to minimize the relief that can provide, but it definitely needs to be in conjunction with other measures. I find that Soma is far more available and also more effective for these same symptoms though. Furthermore, I certainly agree that Robaxin is one of those rarely mentioned withdrawal meds that can facilitate the recovery process. Thank you so much for sharing!!
I am so sorry for posting this twice. I didn’t realize I did!
*intellegent
Hi there. You may have gone over this, but I was on another site where a guy was wanting to get off methadine but he suffered from severe back pain. I went on suboxone to get off opioids a few yrs ago. I worked closely with a responsible dr and we had a set a goal for an end date. It was a miracle for me. I Aldo continued 12 step meetings. But what I didn’t realize was that the back pain I’ve had all my life, scoliosis, was relieved during my suboxone period. Once I stopped completely I THEN realized that, hey- “wait a minute, I didn’t have back pain. Did the suboxone really do that??”.
I sit at the back of the class sometimes. Anyway, when it’s bad, I take Advil, 600 mg. That’s what I took after having a c section (twins), and after having surgery both feet, they broke and realigned my metatarsal bones (I know, I’m grossing myself out too). But the dr sent me home with instructions to take 3 Advil every 6-8 hrs. I still find that all hard to believe, but I think we addicts skip over reason when in situations like that. We go straight to, “well at least I’ll get some good pain meds”. I know, and I do not minimize others pain, but fir those who really do have severe pain issues, what do they do? I didn’t see that addressed. Apologies if I missed it.