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Compare Methocarbamol vs. Tizanidine

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

Key takeaways

Methocarbamol (Robaxin) and tizanidine (Zanaflex) are both medications used to treat muscle-related issues and are referred to as muscle relaxers, but they work in slightly different ways. Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxer, while tizanidine is a specific type of muscle relaxer called an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist. Methocarbamol is used for muscle pain and discomfort, and its injection form is specifically indicated for muscle problems due to tetanus (only administered by a healthcare professional). Tizanidine is used for muscle stiffness and rigidity. Methocarbamol is typically taken 3 to 4 times a day, whereas tizanidine is taken up to 3 times a day as needed. Methocarbamol is not available as a brand-name tablet anymore, while tizanidine is available in both brand and generic forms. Common side effects of methocarbamol include dizziness and drowsiness, while tizanidine can cause dry mouth, sleepiness, and low blood pressure. Neither methocarbamol nor tizanidine have known interactions with common pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).

  • Methocarbamol
    Tizanidine (Zanaflex)
  • Methocarbamol
    Tizanidine (Zanaflex)

  • Summary of Methocarbamol vs. Tizanidine

    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 Alpha-2 agonist
    Prescription only

    Tizanidine, also known by its brand name Zanaflex, is a muscle relaxer. It's FDA approved to treat stiff, rigid muscles in adults. This medication comes as tablets and capsules that you take by mouth. The usual dosage is taken as needed, up to 3 times a day. It has side effects like dry mouth, sleepiness, dizziness, and constipation. Tizanidine (Zanaflex) is available as a generic and brand-name medication.

  • Indications of Methocarbamol vs. Tizanidine

    Indications for
    •Muscle pain and discomfort caused by acute (short-term) conditions
    •Muscle problems due to tetanus - injection form only
    Indications for
    •Muscle stiffness and rigidity

  • Pros and Cons of Methocarbamol vs. Tizanidine

    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 Alpha-2 agonist
    Pros
    •Taken as needed (up to 3 times a day) to help relax stiff or rigid muscles
    •Works within 1 to 2 hours
    •Also available as capsules that can be opened and sprinkled on applesauce
    •Not a controlled substance
    Cons
    •Can cause dizziness, sleepiness, dry mouth, and low blood pressure
    •Interacts with many other medications, like birth control pills, ciprofloxacin, and opioids
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you lower the dose or stop suddenly
    •Higher risk of side effects in older adults and people with kidney problems

  • Common Side Effects of Methocarbamol vs. Tizanidine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness or lightheadedness
    •Drowsiness
    •Blurry vision
    •Headache
    •Nausea
    •Upset stomach
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dry mouth (49%)
    •Sleepiness (48%)
    •Weakness (41%)
    •Dizziness (16%)
    •Urinary tract infection (10%)

  • Warnings of Methocarbamol vs. Tizanidine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Interactions with other medications
    Common Side Effects for
    •Low blood pressure
    •Sleepiness
    •Liver damage
    •Possible hallucinations
    •Withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
    •Allergic reactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Methocarbamol vs. Tizanidine

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    Learn more about Tizanidine

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