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Soma vs. Norflex

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

Key takeaways

Carisoprodol (Soma) and orphenadrine (formerly branded as Norflex) are both muscle relaxants used to treat muscle pain and discomfort, but they have some key differences. Carisoprodol is a controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and dependence, while orphenadrine is not a controlled medication. Carisoprodol is typically taken four times a day and is only recommended for short-term use (up to 2 to 3 weeks), whereas orphenadrine is taken twice a day and can be administered orally or by injection. Orphenadrine is only available as a generic medication, while carisoprodol is available in generic and brand forms. Common side effects of carisoprodol include drowsiness, dizziness, and headaches, while orphenadrine can cause dry mouth, sleepiness, and headaches. Additionally, orphenadrine is not recommended for older adults and people with certain conditions like glaucoma or stomach ulcers, whereas carisoprodol has a broader range of use but comes with a higher risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Carisoprodol

(Soma)

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Orphenadrine

 

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Summary for Soma

Prescription only

Carisoprodol (Soma) is a muscle relaxant that's used to treat muscle pain and discomfort in people ages 16 to 64. The tablets are approved for short-term treatment only and should only be taken for up to 2 to 3 weeks. Researchers think the medication relaxes muscles by changing nerve activity in your nervous system. Carisoprodol (Soma) is a controlled substance because it has a risk for misuse and dependence. Common side effects include headaches, dizziness, and sleepiness.

Indications for Soma

  • Discomfort caused by painful muscle-related conditions (short-term only)

Pros and Cons for Soma

Pros

  • Works quickly (generally within 30 minutes) to relieve muscle pain and discomfort
  • Available in two different strengths
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Not a first-choice option for muscle pain
  • Typically taken four times daily
  • Can be habit-forming
  • Unknown if it's safe for people younger than age 16 or older than age 65

Common Side Effects for Soma

  • Drowsiness (13-17%)
  • Dizziness (7-8%)
  • Headache (3-5%)

Warnings for Soma

  • Extreme sleepiness and trouble with concentration
  • Risk for misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
  • Seizures

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 Soma vs. Norflex

Price Card Drug Icon
Carisoprodol60 tablets / 350mg
$13.66$31.96
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Orphenadrine ER20 tablets / 100mg
$17.66$34.31
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