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Compare Flexeril vs. Soma

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

Cyclobenzaprine
Carisoprodol (Soma)
Cyclobenzaprine
Carisoprodol (Soma)

Summary of Flexeril vs. Soma

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

Carisoprodol (Soma) is a muscle relaxant that's used to treat muscle pain and discomfort in people ages 16 to 64. The tablets are approved for short-term treatment only and should only be taken for up to 2 to 3 weeks. Researchers think the medication relaxes muscles by changing nerve activity in your nervous system. Carisoprodol (Soma) is a controlled substance because it has a risk for misuse and dependence. Common side effects include headaches, dizziness, and sleepiness.

Indications of Flexeril vs. Soma

Indications for
•Muscle discomfort caused by acute (not long-term) conditions
Indications for
•Discomfort caused by painful muscle-related conditions (short-term only)

Pros and Cons of Flexeril vs. Soma

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
•Works quickly (generally within 30 minutes) to relieve muscle pain and discomfort
•Available in two different strengths
•Available as a lower-cost generic
Cons
•Not a first-choice option for muscle pain
•Typically taken four times daily
•Can be habit-forming
•Unknown if it's safe for people younger than age 16 or older than age 65

Common Side Effects of Flexeril vs. Soma

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
•Drowsiness (13-17%)
•Dizziness (7-8%)
•Headache (3-5%)

Warnings of Flexeril vs. Soma

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
•Extreme sleepiness and trouble with concentration
•Risk for misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
•Seizures

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