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Because of the potential of hepatotoxicity, dantrolene should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of liver disease or those receiving other medications that might compete for its metabolic pathways. In addition, liver function tests should be performed at baseline and periodically (2 to 3 times per year) thereafter.
Potential side effects of dantrolene therapy include muscle weakness, diarrhea, mild drowsiness, paresthesias and dysphagia.