Side Effects of Tandrilax

Tandrilax is a medication available in South America. Each tablet contains 125 mg of carisoprodol, 50 mg of diclofenac sodium, 300 mg of paracetamol and 30 mg of caffeine 1. Carisprodol is a muscle relaxant, diclofenac sodium is a non-steroid anti-inflammatory and paramecatol is a generic term for acetaminophen. According to the product monograph, Tandrilax is prescribed for pain and inflammation due to infection, arthritis, surgery or injury. Since this medication is a combination of four drugs, side effects can arise from any one or a combination of the ingredients.

Gastrointestinal Effects

Gastrointestinal side effects from Tandrilax include nausea, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal cramps. The ingredients diclofenac sodium, carisoprodol or paramecatol can cause these side effects 1. According to Drugs.com, taking this medication with food or milk, a full glass of water and avoiding lying down for 20 minutes to minimize these effects.

Central Nervous System Effects

Drowsiness, dizziness or headache can occur from the carisprodol in Tandrilax. According to Drugs.com, carisprodol blocks the signals from the nerves to the brain. This mode of action on the central nervous system is likely responsible for the sedative effects. Persons taking Tandrilax should not engage in activities that require concentration, such as driving. Alcohol should also be avoided as it can intensify these side effects.

Liver Damage

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration cautions that the use of acetaminophen can damage the liver. According to a FDA advisory committee report, liver damage caused by acetaminophen can occur at little more than the recommended daily dose of 4 g. Liver injury is caused by the production of a toxin that binds to liver proteins causing injury. Taking Tandrilax with other acetaminophen containing medications increases the risk of this side effect.

Mood Effects

Mayoclinic.com reports that the common mood-related side effects of caffeine include irritability and restlessness 2. Tandrilax contains 30 mg of caffeine, which is equivalent to approximately 1/3-cup of coffee. Nervousness is reported by Drugs.com as a side effect of diclofenac sodium.