Skip to main content
HomeDrug Comparisons
Drug bottle and Pill

Compare 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
    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

  • Prices with our coupons for Flexeril vs. Soma

    Learn more about Cyclobenzaprine
    Learn more about Carisoprodol

Compare other Musculoskeletal Conditions drugs

Chlorzoxazone vs FlexerilFlexeril vs GablofenFlexeril vs NorflexFlexeril vs NorgesicFlexeril vs SomaFlexeril vs ValiumFlexeril vs XanaxOrphenadrine vs FlexerilRobaxin vs FlexerilSkelaxin vs FlexerilTizanidine vs FlexerilAbilify vs XanaxAdderall vs XanaxAmbien vs XanaxAmitriptyline vs XanaxAtivan vs XanaxBuspirone vs XanaxCatapres vs XanaxCitalopram vs XanaxCymbalta vs XanaxGablofen vs NorflexGablofen vs NorgesicMethocarbamol vs SomaRobaxin vs ChlorzoxazoneSkelaxin vs SomaSoma vs GablofenSoma vs NorflexSoma vs NorgesicTizanidine vs SomaValium vs Gablofen
View More

Browse medications

View All

Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.