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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 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 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 caused by acute (not long-term) conditions
    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
    •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 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 (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
    •Dry mouth
    •Sleepiness
    •Headache
    •Dizziness

  • Warnings of Flexeril vs. Norflex

    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
    •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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