Methocarbamol is a central
muscle relaxant used to treat
skeletal muscle spasms. Under the trade name
Robaxin, it is marketed by Actient Pharmaceuticals in the United States and
Pfizer in Canada. The mechanism of action of methocarbamol is currently unknown, but may involve the inhibition of
carbonic anhydrase.
[2] The muscle relaxant effects of methocarbamol are largely attributed to central depressant effects;
[3] however, peripheral effects of methocarbamol to prolong muscle
refractory period have also been reported.
[4] As with guaifenesin, inhibition of the
NMDA receptor may be involved in the effects of methocarbamol. As of 2015 the cost for a typical month of medication in the United States is less than 25 USD.
[5]