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Compare Chlorzoxazone vs. Flexeril

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Chlorzoxazone (Lorzone) and Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) are both muscle relaxants used to treat muscle pain and discomfort, but they have some key differences. Chlorzoxazone is typically used for sudden muscle pain and is taken three to four times a day, while Cyclobenzaprine is used for acute muscle discomfort and is available in both immediate-release (IR) tablets taken three times a day and extended-release (ER) capsules taken once a day. Chlorzoxazone works by blocking the nerves that cause muscle cramps, whereas Cyclobenzaprine works in the brain to relieve muscle spasms. Cyclobenzaprine can cause dry mouth and has a risk of serotonin syndrome when taken with certain medications, while Chlorzoxazone can cause severe liver damage in rare cases. Both medications can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Additionally, Cyclobenzaprine is not recommended for people with certain heart conditions or liver problems, whereas Chlorzoxazone does not have these specific contraindications.

  • Chlorzoxazone
    Cyclobenzaprine
  • Chlorzoxazone
    Cyclobenzaprine

  • Summary of Chlorzoxazone vs. Flexeril

    Summary for Muscle relaxant
    Prescription only

    Chlorzoxazone, also known by the now discontinued brand name Lorzone, is a muscle relaxant used to treat sudden muscle pain in adults, along with rest and physical therapy. It's thought to work by calming nerve signals that cause muscles to tighten or cramp. The medication comes in tablet form, and you'll typically take a dose by mouth three or four times a day. Though chlorzoxazone is generally well tolerated, side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, and feeling lightheaded.

    Summary for Muscle relaxant
    Prescription only

    Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant used in addition to rest and physical therapy to treat muscle pain and discomfort. It's available as an immediate-release (IR) tablet and an extended-release (ER) capsule. Unlike other muscle relaxants, it's not considered a controlled substance. Cyclobenzaprine can make you sleepy as a side effect so it's best to avoid alcohol to prevent serious harm from combining the two together.

  • Indications of Chlorzoxazone vs. Flexeril

    Indications for
    •Muscle pain and discomfort caused by acute (short-term) conditions
    Indications for
    •Muscle discomfort caused by acute (not long-term) conditions

  • Pros and Cons of Chlorzoxazone vs. Flexeril

    Pros and Const for Muscle relaxant
    Pros
    •Relieves muscle pain and spasms
    •Not a controlled substance
    •Usually well tolerated
    Cons
    •Can cause dizziness and drowsiness
    •Needs to be taken multiple times a day
    •Interacts with alcohol and other medications that cause sleepiness
    Pros and Const for Muscle relaxant
    Pros
    •Works well to relieve muscle spasms
    •Available as an IR tablet and ER capsule
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Can use if you have kidney problems
    Cons
    •Can make you feel dizzy and sleepy
    •Only meant for short-term use (up to 2 to 3 weeks)
    •Doesn't work for muscle spasms caused by brain or spinal injuries
    •Might not be a good option if you're 65 years or older or have liver problems because of higher risk of side effects

  • Common Side Effects of Chlorzoxazone vs. Flexeril

    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness
    •Dizziness
    •Feeling lightheaded
    •General discomfort or feeling ill
    Common Side Effects for

    Immediate-release tablets:

    •Drowsiness (up to 39%)
    •Dry mouth (up to 32%)
    •Dizziness (up to 11%)
    •Feeling tired (up to 6%)
    •Headache (up to 5%)

    Extended-release capsules:

    •Dry mouth (6-14%)
    •Dizziness (3-6%)
    •Indigestion (up to 4%)
    •Nausea (3%)
    •Feeling tired (3%)
    •Constipation (1-3%)
    •Drowsiness (1-2%)

  • Warnings of Chlorzoxazone vs. Flexeril

    Common Side Effects for
    •Liver damage
    •Interaction with alcohol and other medications
    •Allergic reactions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Dry mouth, dry eyes, and trouble urinating
    •Caution use in people with liver problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Chlorzoxazone vs. Flexeril

    Learn more about Chlorzoxazone
    Learn more about Cyclobenzaprine

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