Muscle relaxants are medications used to relieve muscle tension and spasms. They work by affecting the central nervous system or directly targeting the muscles, helping to reduce pain and improve mobility. Common conditions treated with muscle relaxants include back pain, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis. There are two main types of muscle relaxants: antispasmodics, which are used for short-term relief of muscle spasms, and antispastics, which are used for chronic conditions. While effective, these medications can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth, so they should be used under a doctor's guidance.