Question 1

What is Dantrolene (Dantrium) used for?

Accepted Answer

Malignant Hyperthermia
Chronic Spasticity

Question 2

What is the most important information I should know about Dantrolene (Dantrium)?

Accepted Answer

You should not use dantrolene if you are allergic to it, or if you have hepatitis, cirrhosis, or other liver disease.

It is not known if dantrolene will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Do not use dantrolene if you are breastfeeding.

Dantrolene should not be given to a child younger than 5 years old.

You should also not take dantrolene at a time when you need muscle tone for safe balance and movement during certain activities. In some situations, it may be dangerous for you to have reduced muscle tone.

Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

heart disease or a heart attack; or
a breathing disorder such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

heart disease or a heart attack; or
a breathing disorder such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Question 3

Can I take Dantrolene (Dantrium) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

It is not known if dantrolene will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Do not use dantrolene if you are breastfeeding.

Question 4

How to take Dantrolene (Dantrium)?

Accepted Answer

Use Dantrolene (Dantrium) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed. You may need frequent blood tests to check your liver function. If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using dantrolene. If you take dantrolene within 3 or 4 hours before surgery, use just enough water needed to swallow the capsule. Tell your doctor if you have trouble swallowing this medicine. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 45 days, or if they get worse. Store tightly closed at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Question 5

What happens if I overdose on Dantrolene (Dantrium)?

Accepted Answer

If you think you or someone else may have overdosed Dantrolene (Dantrium) call your doctor or the Poison Control center '800-222-1222','(800) 222-1222','Poison Control' If someone collapses or isn't breathing after taking Diclofenac (Voltaren), call 911

Question 6

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Dantrolene (Dantrium)?

Accepted Answer

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries. Dantrolene could make you sunburn more easily. Avoid sunlight or tanning beds. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors. This medication can cause muscle weakness and trouble swallowing. Use caution with daily activities to avoid injury before your muscle strength has returned completely. (especially in your hands and legs)

Question 7

What are the side effects of Dantrolene (Dantrium)?

Accepted Answer

Get emergency medical help if you have hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. signs of an allergic reaction: Dantrolene may cause life-threatening liver damage, especially if you take high doses or take the medicine long-term. Call your doctor at once if you have signs of liver problems: loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Also call your doctor at once if you have:

weak or shallow breathing;
severe or ongoing diarrhea;
problems with vision or speech;
painful or difficult urination;
seizure, a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
trouble swallowing, loss of appetite;
depression, confusion, nervousness;
stomach bleeding--bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;
heart problems--swelling, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath, fast heart rate, irregular blood pressure; or
low blood cell counts--fever, chills, tiredness, mouth sores, skin sores, easy bruising, unusual bleeding, pale skin, cold hands and feet, feeling light-headed or short of breath.

dizziness, drowsiness;
diarrhea;
weakness; or
feeling tired.

Common side effects may include: This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.