Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Dantrolene may be taken with or without food or on a full or empty stomach. However, if your doctor tells you to take the medicine a certain way, take it exactly as directed.

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it and do not take it more often than your doctor ordered.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For oral dosage form (capsules):
    • For prevention or treatment of malignant hyperthermia:
      • Adults—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 4 to 8 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight each day, and is divided in 3 or 4 doses. Your doctor will tell you exactly when and how often to take your medicine.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • To relieve muscle spasms:
      • Adults—At first, 25 milligrams (mg) once a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 100 mg four times a day.
      • Children—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. At first, 0.5 milligram (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight twice a day. Your doctor may adjust the dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 3 mg per kg four times a day or 100 mg four times a day.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.