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Compare Cyclobenzaprine vs. Tramadol

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

Key takeaways

Cyclobenzaprine and tramadol are both medications used to manage pain, but they belong to different classes and have distinct uses. Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant used to treat muscle pain and discomfort, while tramadol 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 not a controlled substance. In contrast, tramadol is a Schedule IV controlled substance available in immediate-release and extended-release forms. Cyclobenzaprine is typically taken up to three times a day, whereas tramadol's dosing varies based on the form and individual needs. Cyclobenzaprine can cause drowsiness and dry mouth, and Tramadol, on the other hand, can cause constipation, nausea, and serious risks like slow breathing and dependency. Both medications may interact with medications that affect serotonin levels, leading to serotonin syndrome. Tramadol requires careful monitoring due to its potential for misuse.

  • Cyclobenzaprine
    Tramadol
  • Cyclobenzaprine
    Tramadol

  • Summary of Cyclobenzaprine vs. Tramadol

    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.

    Summary for Opioid
    Prescription only

    Tramadol is an opioid pain medication used when non-opioid medications aren't working well enough to control pain. Compared to other opioids, tramadol might have a lower risk of misuse and dependency. But tramadol is a controlled substance and has a lot of potentially serious risks, so it must be used with caution.

  • Indications of Cyclobenzaprine vs. Tramadol

    Indications for
    •Muscle discomfort caused by acute (not long-term) conditions
    Indications for
    •Pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications alone

  • Pros and Cons of Cyclobenzaprine vs. Tramadol

    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
    Pros and Const for Opioid
    Pros
    •Extended-release tablets and ConZip capsules are taken once per day and last throughout the day.
    •Immediate-release tablets are available as a lower-cost generic.
    •Possible lower risk of misuse and dependency compared to other opioids
    Cons
    •A controlled medication, so there are special requirements to get a prescription filled
    •Must slowly lower the dose to stop the medication after long-term use to avoid withdrawal symptoms
    •Can't use in some children due to higher risk of potentially severe and life-threatening side effects
    •Not recommended while breastfeeding

  • Common Side Effects of Cyclobenzaprine vs. Tramadol

    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%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Constipation (up to 46%)
    •Nausea (up to 40%)
    •Dizziness (up to 33%)
    •Headache (up to 32%)
    •Sleepiness (up to 25%)
    •Vomiting (up to 17%)

  • Warnings of Cyclobenzaprine vs. Tramadol

    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
    Common Side Effects for
    •Potential for addiction and misuse
    •Dangerously slow breathing (respiratory depression)
    •Overdose
    •Harm to newborn babies
    •Drug interactions
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Seizures
    •Low blood pressure
    •Low adrenal hormone levels
    •Physical dependence and withdrawal
    •Low blood sodium levels

  • Prices with our coupons for Cyclobenzaprine vs. Tramadol

    Learn more about Cyclobenzaprine
    Learn more about Tramadol

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