Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Methocarbamol (Robaxin) and chlorzoxazone (Lorzone) are both muscle relaxants used to treat muscle pain and discomfort, but they have some differences. Methocarbamol is typically taken 3 to 4 times a day and can be used for muscle problems due to tetanus in its injection form, while chlorzoxazone is taken 3 to 4 times a day for sudden muscle pain. Methocarbamol starts working within 30 minutes and lasts about 6 to 7 hours, whereas chlorzoxazone reaches its highest levels in the body within 1 to 2 hours. Methocarbamol is less likely to cause drowsiness compared to other muscle relaxers, but chlorzoxazone can cause severe liver damage and stomach bleeding in rare cases. Both medications can cause dizziness and drowsiness, so you should avoid driving or drinking alcohol while taking them. Chlorzoxazone is available as a lower-cost generic medication, while methocarbamol tablets can be cut in half if needed.
Methocarbamol
Chlorzoxazone
Methocarbamol
Chlorzoxazone
Summary of Robaxin vs. Chlorzoxazone
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
Chlorzoxazone, also known by the now discontinued brand name Lorzone, is a muscle relaxant used to treat sudden muscle pain in adults, along with rest and physical therapy. It's thought to work by calming nerve signals that cause muscles to tighten or cramp. The medication comes in tablet form, and you'll typically take a dose by mouth three or four times a day. Though chlorzoxazone is generally well tolerated, side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, and feeling lightheaded.
Indications of Robaxin vs. Chlorzoxazone
Indications for
•Muscle pain and discomfort caused by acute (short-term) conditions
•Muscle problems due to tetanus - injection form only
Indications for
•Muscle pain and discomfort caused by acute (short-term) conditions
Pros and Cons of Robaxin vs. Chlorzoxazone
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