The length of time that Flexeril remains in the body after the last dose varies greatly for different people. It can be anywhere from just under two days at the very least and up to around nine days at most.
Whether you’re trying to understand how Flexeril works or you’re worried that you, or someone you care about, is misusing this medication, you’re not alone in searching for answers. Let’s walk through some of the most common questions people ask about Flexeril, so you can better understand what it is, how long it lasts, and how to get Flexeril out of your system.
Key Takeaways
- Flexeril can remain in the system for 4 to 7 days on average, depending on factors like dose, frequency, metabolism, age, liver function, and concurrent substance use.
- Flexeril remains detectable for different lengths of time depending on whether the test is urine, blood, saliva, or hair.
- Body weight, metabolism, age, liver health, dose size, and concurrent substance use all influence how long Flexeril stays in the system.
- Trying to flush Flexeril at home can be risky. Medical detox under professional supervision is the safest method.
- Whether for yourself or a loved one, reaching out to healthcare providers or addiction specialists can ensure safe guidance and a path toward recovery.
What is Flexeril?
Flexeril, otherwise known as cyclobenzaprine, is a muscle relaxant prescribed to treat musculoskeletal conditions like muscle spasms, sprains, cramps, and injuries. It has similar properties to depressants, as it interacts with the central nervous system (CNS) to calm the tightened muscles.
Unfortunately, Flexeril is sometimes abused. Flexeril can easily become habit-forming because it has sedative properties and leaves the user feeling calm and relaxed. It is often used recreationally to enhance the effects of other drugs or alcohol and is snorted, swallowed in pill form, or crushed. Using Flexeril with other drugs or alcohol has particularly severe risks, as the interaction between the two substances can result in unpredictable and fatal consequences, including overdose and death.
How Long Does It Take for Flexeril to Work?
The effects of Flexeril usually kick in around an hour after it is consumed. This is important to know so that people taking Flexeril do not become addicted to the drug. If you suspect that you or your loved one may be in the process of becoming dependent on or addicted to the drug, pay attention to whether the proper dose is being taken.
How Long Does Flexeril Last?
Flexeril or cyclobenzaprine, typically provides muscle-relaxing relief for 4 to 6 hours after a standard dose. Most people feel the calming and soothing effects within the first hour, and these sensations gradually fade over the next several hours. Some users notice lingering drowsiness or a sense of heaviness that can last a bit longer, depending on their sensitivity to the medication. For those prescribed the extended-release version, the effects can last up to 24 hours, offering steady relief throughout the day.
What Is Flexeril’s Half-Life?
The average half-life of Flexeril is 18 hours. This means that after 18 hours, only half the concentration of Flexeril remains in the body. Flexeril leaves the body gradually through a series of these half-life cycles. With each cycle, the amount of cyclobenzaprine in your system becomes smaller and smaller until eventually there’s only a tiny, inactive amount left.
It usually takes about six half-life cycles for Flexeril to leave the body completely, which is roughly 34 hours on average. However, the exact time can vary from person to person, because the half-life of Flexeril can range anywhere between 8 and 36 hours depending on factors like age, metabolism, and overall health.
How Long Is Flexeril in Your System?
Flexeril stays in your system for 4 to 7 days on average, but the exact duration depends on multiple factors:
- Dose: The larger the dose, the longer it takes for the drug to exit the body.
- Duration and frequency of use: The longer the drug has been misused, and the more often the drug is misused, the longer it takes for the drug to be processed and removed from the body.
- Weight and metabolism: Heavier people and people with a slower metabolism have a harder time ridding the body of the drug.
- Age: Older people usually have a slower metabolism, which results in slower excretion of the drug.
- Liver function: The liver is a key part of the excretory system, so the healthier the liver, the faster the drug will be removed.
- Other substances: If other recreational substances are used concurrently, it may take longer for the body to remove Flexeril.
Does Cyclobenzaprine Show Up on a Drug Test?
Most lab tests do not screen for Flexeril use, and the common 12-panel screen test does not include Flexeril either. There are, however, four different testing methods that show whether Flexeril has been used: urine, saliva, hair, and blood. Here’s how long it may show up on each test:
Urine- A urine test will show Flexeril use for around 72 hours after the last dose.
Saliva- A saliva test is only effective for a few hours after Flexeril was last consumed, but it can show up for around 36 hours.
Hair- Flexeril drug tests using hair are rare, but they show Flexeril use for the longest period of time, 90 days.
Blood- A blood sample shows the use of Flexeril for 3-8 days after the last dose. It’s difficult to predict the exact amount of time because it varies from person to person.
How to Flush Flexeril Out of Your System
If you’re looking into how to remove Flexeril from your system before a drug test, it’s important to know that trying to do this on your own can be risky, especially if you’ve been using the medication regularly or in higher amounts. Reaching out to a medical professional can offer safer guidance and help you understand your options. Some people look for quick fixes, but there’s no guaranteed or fully safe way to clear Flexeril from the body at home.
The safest approach is a medical detox, where professionals can monitor you and support your body as it clears the medication naturally. If you’re not pursuing medical help but still want cyclobenzaprine to move through your system a little faster, here are some safer ways to support your body’s natural process:
- Staying hydrated- Drinking several liters of water a day can help flush the substance from the body. Some say that cranberry juice can be useful, too.
- Exercising- This quickens your metabolism, allowing the substance to exit the body faster through the waste system.
- Avoiding foods that cause constipation- This allows the body to work more efficiently at eliminating the drug.
If you or someone you know is trying to flush drugs out of their system to avoid a positive drug test, it usually signals that there may be a deeper issue with substance use. Recognizing that this situation may require support is an important first step. Reaching out to a drug rehab facility, healthcare providers, or a trusted support service can provide guidance, safer options, and a path toward getting things back under control.
Flexeril Addiction Treatment Options
If you or your loved one is abusing Flexeril, know that the addiction will not disappear on its own. It is almost impossible for someone struggling with addiction to quit the drug cold turkey, even as they are cognizant of the adverse impact the addiction has on their lives financially, emotionally, physically, and psychologically.
It’s important not to attempt to deal with the addiction on your own, but rather consider treatment options that can help you when you are ready to take control of your life.
- Medical detox- As mentioned above, medical detox is the first course of action to help a person remove a substance from their body safely, with minimal withdrawal effects. This can take place at a drug rehab facility, a hospital, or other medical facility.
- Therapies- There are many therapies available that can support the process of recovery, including one-on-one talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapies, and other holistic methods. These can take place inpatient at a drug rehab center or, in cases of lesser severity, outpatient at a medical center.
- MAT/ Medication-Assisted Treatment- This is a treatment plan that uses medications under the guidance of a mental health professional to ease withdrawal and assist in the process of recovery.
Clear Flexeril From Your System the Safe Way
An addiction to Flexeril can start innocently, but once dependence develops, it’s a signal that change is needed. At Avenues Recovery, we have extensive experience helping individuals overcome many forms of addiction, including Flexeril dependence. Our mental health and addiction professionals provide you with guidance every step of the way, using a variety of therapies and personalized treatment plans to support lasting recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling, know that help is available. We’re here to provide understanding, support, and the resources you need to begin the journey toward sobriety - just reach out.
FAQs on How Long Does Cyclobenzaprine Stay in Your System
Does Flexeril show up on a 12-panel drug test?
Flexeril does not usually show up on a standard 12-panel drug test. Most 12-panel tests screen for common substances like opioids, benzodiazepines, and amphetamines. However, Flexeril may trigger a false positive for tricyclic antidepressants due to its chemical structure.
Is cyclobenzaprine safe to use long-term?
Cyclobenzaprine is generally prescribed for short-term use, usually no more than 2 to 3 weeks, because its effectiveness for long-term treatment hasn’t been firmly established. Extended use increases the risk of side effects, and doctors often recommend other approaches (like physical therapy) for chronic muscle issues.
Does Flexeril build up in your system if taken daily?
Regular use of Flexeril can cause the medication to accumulate slightly in the body, potentially prolonging its effects or drowsiness. Even with daily use, it is generally eliminated within a couple of days after stopping, but extended-release versions may take longer to fully clear.
What happens if you suddenly stop taking Flexeril after long-term use?
Stopping Flexeril abruptly after long-term use may cause mild withdrawal-like symptoms, including irritability, insomnia, or muscle discomfort. It’s generally recommended to taper the dose under a doctor’s supervision to reduce these effects safely. This helps the body adjust gradually and prevents unnecessary discomfort.