Compare Lioresal vs. Norflex
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Gablofen (baclofen) and orphenadrine ER (Norflex) are both muscle relaxants, but they have different uses and methods of administration. Gablofen (baclofen) is used to treat severe spasticity in people who can't tolerate or don't get enough relief from oral baclofen. It's given as a continuous infusion through an implantable pump directly into the space around the spinal cord. On the other hand, orphenadrine ER is used to relieve muscle pain and discomfort from short-term muscle conditions and is taken orally. Gablofen (baclofen) is typically for long-term use and requires surgical implantation and regular refills by a healthcare professional, while orphenadrine ER is taken by twice a day. Gablofen (baclofen) different side effects compared to oral muscle relaxers like orphenadrine ER, which can cause dry mouth, headache, and drowsiness. Both drugs are available as lower-cost generics.
- Intrathecal baclofen (Lioresal)Orphenadrine
- Intrathecal baclofen (Lioresal)Orphenadrine
Summary of Lioresal vs. Norflex
Summary for Muscle relaxantPrescription onlyIntrathecal baclofen (Lioresal) is a muscle relaxant. It's given to adults and children ages 4 years and older to treat severe spasticity caused by certain conditions, like spinal cord injuries, that can't be treated with oral baclofen. Intrathecal baclofen (Lioresal) is typically given as a continuous infusion through an implantable pump. But before you can undergo the procedure to receive the pump, your healthcare team will inject test doses of intrathecal baclofen (Lioresal) to see if it works for you. Some side effects of this medication include nausea, sleepiness, and dizziness.
Summary for Muscle relaxantPrescription onlyOrphenadrine 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 Lioresal vs. Norflex
Indications for•Severe spasticity in people who are either having too many side effects from oral baclofen or who aren't getting enough symptom relief from itIndications for•Relief of muscle discomfort from short-term muscle conditionsPros and Cons of Lioresal vs. Norflex
Pros and Const for Muscle relaxantPros•A possible option for those who can't take oral baclofen•Less side effects compared to oral baclofen•Infused through a pump, so don't need to remember to take medication by mouth daily•Might be an option for children as young as 4 years oldConsPros and Const for Muscle relaxantProsCons•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 musclesCommon Side Effects of Lioresal vs. Norflex
Common Side Effects for•Muscle weakness (up to 35%)•Sleepiness (up to 21%)•Headache (up to 11%)•Nausea and vomiting (up to 11%)•Convulsions (up to 10%)•Dizziness (8%)•"Pins and needles" feeling in arms and legs (up to 7%)•Stiff muscles (up to 6%)•Constipation (up to 5%)Common Side Effects for•Dry mouth•Sleepiness•Headache•DizzinessWarnings of Lioresal vs. Norflex
Common Side Effects for•Withdrawal when stopping intrathecal baclofen (Lioresal) suddenly•Intrathecal baclofen overdose•Worsening of other health conditions•Extreme sleepiness or dizziness•Ovarian cystsCommon Side Effects for•Difficulty concentrating•Use with caution in people with heart problemsPrices with our coupons for Lioresal vs. Norflex
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