What severe side effect can tizanidine cause in patients?

Tizanidine is a muscle relaxant that is primarily used to manage spasticity. One of its significant side effects is liver damage, which can manifest as elevated liver enzymes or, in severe cases, acute liver failure. This hepatotoxicity is particularly concerning because it can occur with both short-term and long-term use of the medication. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is recommended for patients taking tizanidine to detect any potential liver issues early on.

This risk underscores the importance of being vigilant regarding liver health when administering tizanidine. Although hypotension and respiratory depression can occur with this medication, they do not carry the same level of severity and potential long-term harm as liver damage. Cardiac arrest is rare and not typically associated with routine tizanidine use. Hence, liver damage stands out as the severe side effect of concern for patients taking this medication.