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Flexeril vs. Soma

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

Key takeaways

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) and carisoprodol (Soma) are both muscle relaxants used to treat muscle pain and spasms. They are similar in that they are both prescribed for short-term use, typically up to 2 to 3 weeks. However, they differ in several ways. Cyclobenzaprine is not a controlled substance, while carisoprodol is a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and dependence. Cyclobenzaprine is available in immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules, whereas carisoprodol is only available in immediate-release tablet form. Cyclobenzaprine is typically taken 1 to 3 times a day, depending on the form, while carisoprodol is typically taken four times daily. Cyclobenzaprine can interact with antidepressants and lead to serotonin syndrome, whereas carisoprodol can interact with medications like omeprazole and aspirin. Both medications can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness, and you should avoid combining them with alcohol.

Cyclobenzaprine

 

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Carisoprodol

(Soma)

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Summary for Flexeril

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.

Indications for Flexeril

  • Muscle discomfort from short-term muscle or bone injury problems

Pros and Cons for Flexeril

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

Common Side Effects for Flexeril

Immediate-release tablets:

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

Extended-release capsules:

  • Dry mouth (14%)
  • Dizziness (6%)

Warnings for Flexeril

  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Effect on driving and concentration
  • Caution use in people with glaucoma or trouble urinating
  • Caution use in people with liver problems

Summary for Soma

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 for Soma

  • Discomfort caused by painful muscle-related conditions (short-term only)

Pros and Cons for Soma

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 for Soma

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

Warnings for Soma

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

Prices with our coupons for Flexeril vs. Soma

Price Card Drug Icon
Cyclobenzaprine30 tablets / 10mg
$8.90$30.69
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Carisoprodol60 tablets / 350mg
$9.25$39.99
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