PTCE Top 200 · #47

Cyclobenzaprine

Flexeril

Cyclobenzaprine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Flexeril. It is a skeletal muscle relaxant used to treat muscle spasm. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Cyclobenzaprine ranks #47 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.

Generic name	Cyclobenzaprine
Brand name(s)	Flexeril
Drug class	Skeletal muscle relaxant
Class group	CNS/Psych
Common use	muscle spasm
DEA schedule	Unscheduled
Availability	Prescription only (Rx)

What is Cyclobenzaprine used for?

• Short-term relief of muscle spasm associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions.

What drug class is Cyclobenzaprine?

Cyclobenzaprine is a Skeletal muscle relaxant in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.

Common side effects of Cyclobenzaprine

arrow_rightDrowsiness
arrow_rightDry mouth
arrow_rightDizziness
arrow_rightFatigue

Major interactions

arrow_rightMAO inhibitors (contraindicated) → severe reactions/serotonin syndrome risk
arrow_rightCNS depressants (alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines) ↑ sedation/impairment
arrow_rightOther serotonergic drugs may ↑ serotonin syndrome risk

Is Cyclobenzaprine a controlled substance?

No. Cyclobenzaprine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

How to remember Cyclobenzaprine (PTCE mnemonic)

FLEX-eril relaxes a FLEX-ed back — cyclobenza-PRINE is TCA-like. Drowsy, dry mouth, ≤2-3 weeks only; NO MAOIs (serotonin syndrome).

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PTCE exam tip

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) is a muscle relaxant that's structurally a tricyclic — expect drowsiness and anticholinergic counseling.