Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) and oxycodone (Roxicodone, Oxaydo) are both medications used to manage pain, but they belong to different classes and have distinct uses. Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant that helps relieve muscle spasms and discomfort, while oxycodone is an opioid used for pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid medications. Cyclobenzaprine is available as immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules, and it's typically taken for short-term use, up to 2 to 3 weeks. Oxycodone, on the other hand, is available as immediate-release tablets, capsules, and liquid, and is taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Cyclobenzaprine is not a controlled substance, whereas oxycodone is a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high risk of misuse and dependence. Common side effects of cyclobenzaprine include drowsiness and dry mouth, while oxycodone can cause constipation, nausea, and dizziness. Both medications can cause drowsiness, so you should avoid alcohol and be cautious with activities that require focus. Both medications can interact with antidepressants, leading to serotonin syndrome, and medications that cause drowsiness, increasing the risk of dangerous side effects.
Cyclobenzaprine
Oxycodone
Cyclobenzaprine
Oxycodone
Summary of Cyclobenzaprine vs. Oxycodone
Summary for Muscle relaxant
Prescription only
Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant that helps relieve muscle pain and discomfort. It's often used short term with rest and physical therapy. Immediate-release tablets are for people 15 years and older and are taken a few times a day. Once sold under the brand name Flexeril, the tablets now as a generic and brand name Fexmid. Extended-release capsules are for adults only and are taken once a day. The capsules comes as a generic and brand name Amrix. Cyclobenzaprine can make you sleepy and have dry mouth as side effects.
Summary for Opioid
Prescription only
Immediate-release oxycodone, also known by its brand names Roxicodone and Oxaydo, is an opioid. It's used to treat pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications. Immediate-release oxycodone is available as tablets, capsules, and a liquid that are taken by mouth. Your prescriber will work with you to find the dosage for your individual needs, but it's typically taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed for your pain. Common side effects include making you constipated, sleepy, and dizzy. Oxycodone is a controlled substance because it has a high risk of misuse and dependence.
Indications of Cyclobenzaprine vs. Oxycodone
Indications for
•Muscle discomfort from short-term muscle or bone injury problems