Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Dantrium (Dantrolene).
Cancer: The potential for Dantrium (Dantrolene) to cause cancer in humans cannot be ruled out. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor.
Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Dantrium (Dantrolene) may temporarily cause drowsiness, which may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. These effects should only last about a week. Avoid hazardous tasks for the first week of treatment.
Heart function: If you have heart disease, you should be monitored closely by your doctor while taking Dantrium (Dantrolene).
Liver injury: Dantrium (Dantrolene) capsules may be toxic to the liver, or worsen existing liver damage. The risk of liver injury is greater for women, people over 30 years old, people taking other medications, and people taking other therapies that may cause liver damage. If you experience symptoms of liver problems such as fatigue, feeling unwell, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain or swelling, and itchy skin, contact your doctor immediately.
If you have liver disease, talk to your doctor about whether you should use Dantrium (Dantrolene). People using Dantrium (Dantrolene) will likely have liver tests before and during use.
Lung function: If you have impaired lung function, you should be monitored closely by your doctor while taking Dantrium (Dantrolene)
Muscle weakness: Some people taking Dantrium (Dantrolene) feel excessively weak as long as they are taking the medication. These people may not be able to use rehabilitation devices such as crutches, wheelchairs, braces, walkers, or canes. If you use any of these devices and experience persistent weakness that interferes with the use of these devices, you should talk to your doctor. You may have to stop taking Dantrium (Dantrolene).
Pregnancy: Dantrium (Dantrolene) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Dantrium (Dantrolene), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Dantrium (Dantrolene) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Dantrium (Dantrolene), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Dantrium (Dantrolene) have not been established for children under 5 years old.