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Robaxin vs. Norflex

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

Key takeaways

Methocarbamol (Robaxin) and orphenadrine (Norflex) are both muscle relaxants used to relieve muscle pain and discomfort, but they have some differences. Methocarbamol is taken 3 to 4 times daily, while orphenadrine is taken only twice a day. Methocarbamol can be taken as a tablet or injection, and it starts working within 30 minutes. Orphenadrine, available as a generic, can also be taken as a tablet or injection and starts working within an hour. Methocarbamol is less likely to cause drowsiness compared to other muscle relaxers, whereas orphenadrine can cause dry mouth, sleepiness, and headache. Orphenadrine has more restrictions, such as not being suitable for people with glaucoma or certain stomach problems, while methocarbamol is not recommended for older adults due to higher risk of side effects. Both medications should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Methocarbamol

 

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Orphenadrine

 

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Summary for Robaxin

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 Robaxin

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

Pros and Cons for Robaxin

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 Robaxin

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

Warnings for Robaxin

  • Effect on driving and concentration
  • Interactions with other medications

Summary for Norflex

Prescription only

Orphenadrine 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 for Norflex

  • Relief of muscle discomfort from short-term muscle conditions

Pros and Cons for Norflex

Pros

  • Taken only twice a day
  • Can start to work within 1 hour
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

Common Side Effects for Norflex

  • Dry mouth
  • Sleepiness
  • Headache
  • Dizziness

Warnings for Norflex

  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Use with caution in people with heart problems

Prices with our coupons for Robaxin vs. Norflex

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Methocarbamol60 tablets / 500mg
$14.42$35.16
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Orphenadrine ER20 tablets / 100mg
$17.66$35.46
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