NOTE: Persons with CFIDS generally do not tolerate standard, “usual” doses of many medications. It is advisable to start with lower than usual dosages and gradually increase to therapeutic range, not to exceed the FDA recommended amounts.
MEDICATION CHEMICAL NAME	MEDICATION BRAND NAME	SIDE EFFECTS	COMMENTS
Cyclobenzaprine	Flexeril	Dizziness; dry mouth; drowsiness	Potential drug interactions and other warnings
Diazepam	Valium	Drowsiness; anxiety; fatigue; loss of muscle coordination; lightheadedness	Potentially addictive; multiple potential drug interactions
Carisoprodol	Soma	Agitation; dizziness; drowsiness; depression	Potentially habit-forming; several potential drug interactions
Methocarbamol	Robaxin	Blurred vision; dizziness; drowsiness; fever; headache	Several potential drug interactions; may turn urine brown, green, or black
Orphenadrine plus aspirin, plus caffeine	Norgesic	Confusion in older adults; drowsiness; blurred vision; headache, dizziness	Many possible interactions and special warnings; contains aspirin
Chlorzoxazone	Parafon Forte DSC	Bruises; red or purple spots on the skin; dizziness; drowsiness; feeling of illness; fluid retention	Some drug interactions are possible, particularly alcohol and central nervous system medications