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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

 

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Tizanidine

(Zanaflex)

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Summary for Methocarbamol

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.

Indications for Methocarbamol

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

Pros and Cons for Methocarbamol

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

Common Side Effects for Methocarbamol

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Drowsiness
  • Blurry vision
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Upset stomach

Warnings for Methocarbamol

  • Effect on driving and concentration
  • Interactions with other medications

Summary for Tizanidine

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 for Tizanidine

Pros and Cons for Tizanidine

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 for Tizanidine

Warnings for Tizanidine

  • 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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Methocarbamol60 tablets / 500mg
$11.72$22.21
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Tizanidine30 tablets / 4mg
$9.00$9.00
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