Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Metaxalone (Skelaxin) and Orphengesic Forte (orphenadrine/aspirin/caffeine) are both used to relieve muscle pain, but they have some key differences. Metaxalone is a muscle relaxant that works by relaxing your nervous system in the brain and is typically taken three to four times a day. It is available as a lower-cost generic and is not a controlled substance. Orphengesic Forte, on the other hand, is a combination medication that includes a muscle relaxant (orphenadrine), an NSAID (aspirin), and caffeine. It is used for muscle, bone, joint, or tendon pain and also needs to be taken multiple times a day. Orphengesic Forte carries more serious risks, such as stomach bleeding and ulcers due to the aspirin component, and it is not recommended for use in children or pregnant women after 20 weeks. Additionally, you need to limit caffeine intake while taking Orphengesic Forte. Both medications can cause drowsiness and dizziness, but Orphengesic Forte has a broader range of potential side effects and interactions due to its combination of ingredients.
Metaxalone
Orphengesic forte
Metaxalone
Orphengesic forte
Summary of Skelaxin vs. Orphengesic Forte
Summary for Muscle relaxant
Prescription only
Metaxalone is a muscle relaxer. It's used to treat muscle pain and discomfort that's not chronic or long-lasting. This medication is thought to relieve muscle pain by relaxing your nervous system in the brain. Metaxalone is typically taken by mouth three or four times a day. It commonly causes drowsiness and dizziness as side effects. It's best to avoid drinking alcohol while you're taking metaxalone because alcohol can interact with this medication and worsen side effects.
Summary for Muscle relaxant / NSAID / Adenosine antagonist
Prescription only
Orphengesic Forte is a combination medication that contains orphenadrine, aspirin, and caffeine. It can be used for muscle, bone, joint, or tendon pain relief. It has some serious risks, like stomach bleeding and ulcers, because of the aspirin in the medication.
Indications of Skelaxin vs. Orphengesic Forte
Indications for
•Muscle discomfort caused by acute (not chronic) conditions when rest or physical therapy isn't enough for relief
Indications for
•Mild-to-moderate muscle, bone, joint, or tendon pain