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Compare Flexeril vs. Norflex

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

Key takeaways

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) and orphenadrine (Norflex) are both muscle relaxants used to relieve muscle pain and discomfort, but they have some differences. Cyclobenzaprine is available as both an immediate-release (IR) tablet and an extended-release (ER) capsule, while orphenadrine is available as an IR tablet, ER tablet, and an injection. Cyclobenzaprine works in the brain to relieve muscle spasms, whereas orphenadrine's exact mechanism is unclear but is thought to block nerve signals between the spinal cord and muscles. Cyclobenzaprine is typically taken three times a day for the IR form or once a day for the ER form, while orphenadrine is taken twice a day. Both medications can cause drowsiness and dry mouth, but cyclobenzaprine is has a higher risk of interactions with other medications that affect serotonin levels. Orphenadrine, on the other hand, is not recommended for people with certain conditions like glaucoma or heart problems. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics.

  • Cyclobenzaprine
    Orphenadrine
  • Cyclobenzaprine
    Orphenadrine

  • Summary of Flexeril vs. Norflex

    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 Muscle relaxant
    Prescription only

    Orphenadrine citrate is a muscle relaxer that's used to relieve muscle pain and discomfort. It's often used together with other pain-relieving methods, such as resting and physical therapy. Orphenadrine is available as a tablet that's taken by mouth as well as an injection that's administered by a healthcare provider for certain situations. Side effects can include dry mouth, headache, and drowsiness. Orphenadrine is a generic medication; its brand-name version, Norflex, is no longer available.

  • Indications of Flexeril vs. Norflex

    Indications for
    •Muscle discomfort from short-term muscle or bone injury problems
    Indications for
    •Relief of muscle discomfort from short-term muscle conditions

  • Pros and Cons of Flexeril vs. Norflex

    Pros and Const for Muscle relaxant
    Pros
    •Can take with or without food
    •Available as short-acting and long-acting forms for flexible dosing schedules
    •Can help with recovery from acute painful muscle problems in a few days
    Cons
    •Only meant for short-term use (up to 2 to 3 weeks at a time)
    •Might not be a safe option for older adults
    •Not known to work well for nerve pain or muscle spasms caused by brain or spinal injuries
    Pros and Const for Muscle relaxant
    Pros
    •Taken only twice a day
    •Can start to work within 1 hour
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Not a first choice option for short- or long-term pain relief
    •Not recommended for older adults because of higher risk for side effects
    •Can't use if you have glaucoma, certain stomach or gut problems, urination or swallowing problems, or nerve problems that affect the muscles

  • Common Side Effects of Flexeril vs. Norflex

    Common Side Effects for

    Immediate-release tablets:

    •Drowsiness (39%)
    •Dry mouth (27%)
    •Dizziness (11%)

    Extended-release capsules:

    •Dry mouth (14%)
    •Dizziness (6%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dry mouth
    •Sleepiness
    •Headache
    •Dizziness

  • Warnings of Flexeril vs. Norflex

    Common Side Effects for
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Caution use in people with glaucoma or trouble urinating
    •Caution use in people with liver problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Difficulty concentrating
    •Use with caution in people with heart problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Flexeril vs. Norflex

    Learn more about Cyclobenzaprine
    Learn more about Orphenadrine

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