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Compare Methocarbamol vs. Soma

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

Key takeaways

Methocarbamol (Robaxin) and carisoprodol (Soma) are both muscle relaxants used to treat muscle pain and discomfort. They are similar in that they are both prescribed for short-term relief of muscle pain. However, methocarbamol is not a controlled substance, while carisoprodol is a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and dependence. Methocarbamol is typically taken three to four times a day, and it is available in both oral and injectable forms. Carisoprodol is typically taken four times a day. Methocarbamol is less likely to cause drowsiness compared to carisoprodol, which commonly causes drowsiness and dizziness. Methocarbamol does not interact with acetaminophen or ibuprofen, while carisoprodol has interactions with several medications, including omeprazole and aspirin. Additionally, methocarbamol is not habit-forming, whereas carisoprodol can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly.

  • Methocarbamol
    Carisoprodol (Soma)
  • Methocarbamol
    Carisoprodol (Soma)

  • Summary of Methocarbamol vs. Soma

    Summary for Muscle relaxant
    Prescription only

    Methocarbamol (Robaxin) is a muscle relaxer. It's used to treat muscle pain and discomfort, like back pain, in people ages 16 years and older. It works best when used along with non-medication treatments, such as rest and physical therapy. Methocarbamol is taken by mouth, typically 3 or 4 times daily. It's also available as an injection that's given into the muscles or through the veins, typically in a hospital setting. Side effects of methocarbamol include dizziness, drowsiness, and blurry vision.

    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 Methocarbamol vs. Soma

    Indications for
    •Muscle pain and discomfort caused by acute (short-term) conditions
    •Muscle problems due to tetanus - injection form only
    Indications for
    •Discomfort caused by painful muscle-related conditions (short-term only)

  • Pros and Cons of Methocarbamol vs. Soma

    Pros and Const for Muscle relaxant
    Pros
    •Starts to work within 30 minutes to relieve muscle pain and discomfort
    •Less likely to cause drowsiness compared to some other muscle relaxers
    •Tablets can be cut in half
    Cons
    •Taken 3 to 4 times daily
    •Older adults at higher risk for side effects
    •Not safe to take either some other pain medications, such as opioid medications
    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 Methocarbamol vs. Soma

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness or lightheadedness
    •Drowsiness
    •Blurry vision
    •Headache
    •Nausea
    •Upset stomach
    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness (13-17%)
    •Dizziness (7-8%)
    •Headache (3-5%)

  • Warnings of Methocarbamol vs. Soma

    Common Side Effects for
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Interactions with other medications
    Common Side Effects for
    •Extreme sleepiness and trouble with concentration
    •Risk for misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
    •Seizures

  • Prices with our coupons for Methocarbamol vs. Soma

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    Learn more about Carisoprodol

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