Cyclobenzaprine is prescribed for muscle spasms. Which disorder would indicate the nurse should contact the primary health care provider before administration?

• A. Diabetes mellitus
• B. Asthma
• C. Glaucoma
• D. Hypertension

Answer: (C)

Cyclobenzaprine has anticholinergic effects, which means it can cause pupil dilation and reduce drainage of the eye. In glaucoma, especially angle-closure glaucoma, this can raise intraocular pressure and potentially trigger a painful, dangerous increase in pressure. Because of that risk, a patient with glaucoma should have the prescriber consulted before giving this medication to decide whether the benefits outweigh the risks or to consider alternatives.

Diabetes mellitus, asthma, and hypertension do not present an immediate, direct contraindication to cyclobenzaprine in the same way glaucoma does; they may require monitoring for other side effects, but they don’t mandate not giving the drug based on these conditions alone.