Comparative efficacy and safety of skeletal muscle relaxants for spasticity and musculoskeletal conditions: a systematic review

On a case-by-case basis, they are used depending on which one is most appropriate. There is currently no clinical evidence that shows a direct comparison between these two medicines (Chou R, Peterson K, Helfand M). Zanaflex should not be taken if you’re currently using fluvoxamine or ciprofloxacin due to the increased risk of severe side effects. Similarly, Flexeril is contraindicated with MAOIs as it may lead to life-threatening interactions; a washout period of about 14 days is required if switching from an MAOI to Flexeril. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking Flexeril, seek immediate medical attention. Although rare, these signs can indicate a potentially life-threatening condition requiring urgent care.

Although antispastics and antispasmodics are both types of skeletal muscle relaxants, they have specific and different uses. In addition, some of these medications treat conditions not related to muscle function. For example, providers sometimes prescribe diazepam to treat anxiety and seizures. Prolonged or misused Flexeril can result in withdrawal symptoms and other adverse effects.

If you experience neck or back strains, you may be recommended a muscle relaxant like Zanaflex or Flexeril. These drugs can also help relieve muscle spasms and stiffness related to other physical conditions and injuries. Both medications are commonly known to alleviate muscle spasms and pain. However, Tizanidine is more effective in providing longer-lasting relief in patients with spasticity caused by multiple sclerosis.

• They’re alternative therapy after first- or second-line therapies haven’t worked.
• Users are urged to follow all directions on their prescription label and know that their doctor could occasionally change their dose.
• However, evidence of their effectiveness consists mainly of studies with poor methodologic design.
• Tizanidine and cyclobenzaprine use in high doses can cause liver damage.
• Flexeril is often prescribed to relieve muscle pain and spasms caused by back and neck strains.

To find the least expensive pharmacy near you, and to obtain a coupon, visit the GoodRX methocarbamol page. Prices for Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) start around $4 for a bottle of 30 tablets, strength 10 mg. To find the least expensive pharmacy near you, and to get a coupon, visit the GoodRX cyclobenzaprine page. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen and Naproxen are usually taken with or without acetaminophen.

Muscle-Building Exercises for Diabetes

Based on studies by IQVIA, a total of 28.4 million cyclobenzaprine prescriptions were dispensed in the US in 2017. Tizanidine is a muscle relaxer that was approved by the FDA in 1996 and is used to treat stiff, norco vs flexeril rigid muscles. It is often sold under the brand name Zanaflex and is helpful for treating spinal injuries as well as neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

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Whereas, Cyclobenzaprine can’t be taken for more than a few weeks at a time, so it is more effective for acute muscle spasms and pain. Zanaflex has been approved to treat muscle spasticity linked to multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries. Flexeril, or cyclobenzaprine, is used to treat skeletal muscle pain and spasms.

Articles on this website are meant for educational purposes only and are not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you think you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call your doctor immediately or call 911 (if within the United States). There is a key difference between the dosing instructions for each of the medications. In comparison, Tizanidine is more direct – blocking the nerve signals in the brain, reducing activity of the muscles that cause muscles to spasm.

What Is The Difference Between Cyclobenzaprine And Tizanidine?

The side effect profile is similar between these two drugs; however, drowsiness tends to be more pronounced with Flexeril compared with Zanaflex. It’s important for patients starting either medication to monitor their response closely and seek medical help if they experience severe side effects such as hallucinations or irregular heartbeat. If any symptoms seem severe or persist over time consult with your healthcare provider immediately. It’s designed to be used along with physical therapy and rest as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Robaxin (methocarbamol) is not fully understood, but may work on the brain and/or spinal cord. Flexeril is used to treat muscle spasms as an addition to rest and physical therapy, whereas Zanaflex is used to treat disorders like multiple sclerosis or spinal damage (Dickerson, L.M., 2010). Zanaflex can be considered as a first-line treatment option due to its quick onset of action and short duration, which makes it suitable for patients who need fast relief from acute muscle spasms. On the other hand, Flexeril has a longer half-life and is usually prescribed for those requiring continuous control over their symptoms.

Side effects

Flexeril therapy typically begins with a dosage of 5 mg three times per day. The dose can then be increased to up to 10 mg three times a day, depending on tolerance and efficacy. These doses should be spaced evenly throughout the day, ideally eight hours apart. As always, changes in dosage must only occur under medical supervision based on individual therapeutic response. Zanaflex is a centrally acting alpha 2 adrenergic agonist that was first approved and administered in the US in 1996. It is a short-acting muscle relaxant primarily administered to patients experiencing muscle cramps and stiffness due to chronic disorders like multiple sclerosis and spinal cord lesions.