Skeletal muscle relaxants are drugs that work on the central nervous system to relax certain skeletal muscles in the body. Skeletal muscles are muscles that are attached to the bones and are associated with movement. Skeletal muscle relaxants are typically used to treat muscular pain and spasms due to musculoskeletal conditions, as well as spasticity resulting from syndromes of the upper motor neurons.

Physicians usually prescribe these medications early in a patient’s treatment regimen. In most cases, they are intended to be used on a short-term basis only. Long-term use of skeletal muscle relaxants involves the potential for abuse and dependency, and is therefore discouraged by many physicians.

Most skeletal muscle relaxants are taken in tablet form, but a prescription injection also is available for some patients. Examples of skeletal muscle relaxants include: