Valium vs. Norflex for Musculoskeletal Conditions: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Diazepam (Valium) and orphenadrine are both used to treat muscle-related issues, but they have some key differences. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine that treats anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, muscle spasms, and seizures. It works by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain. Orphenadrine, on the other hand, is a muscle relaxant used specifically for relieving muscle pain and discomfort. Its exact mechanism is unclear, but it blocks nerve signals between the spinal cord and muscles. Diazepam is a controlled substance with a risk of misuse and dependence, while orphenadrine is not a controlled medication but can still be misused. Diazepam is available in both tablet and liquid forms and is taken multiple times a day. Orphenadrine is taken as a tablet twice a day or as an injectable under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Common side effects of diazepam include sleepiness, dizziness, and muscle weakness, while orphenadrine can cause dry mouth, headache, and drowsiness.

Diazepam

(Valium)

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Orphenadrine

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Summary for Valium

Prescription only

Diazepam (Valium) is a benzodiazepine. It's used to treat symptoms of anxiety and alcohol withdrawal. It can also treat certain types of muscle spasms and seizures. Diazepam (Valium) comes as a tablet and liquid solution. It's taken by mouth, typically 2 to 4 times daily. Some common side effects of diazepam (Valium) include sleepiness, dizziness, and weakness. Additionally, this medication carries a risk for misuse and dependence, so it's classified as a controlled substance.

Indications for Valium

Anxiety disorders and short-term anxiety symptoms
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms
Muscle spasms or spasticity from certain conditions, such as cerebral palsy and stiff-person syndrome (SPS)
Add-on to other medications for seizures

Pros and Cons for Valium

Pros

Taken by mouth
Available as tablets and liquid
Works within 30 minutes

Cons

Might need to take multiple times a day
Short-term use only because risk for dependence
Generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Common Side Effects for Valium

Sleepiness
Dizziness
Muscle weakness
Problems with balance or coordination
Memory problems

Warnings for Valium

Extreme sleepiness and difficulty breathing
Misuse and dependence
Withdrawal
Harm to babies during pregnancy and after delivery
Interactions with other medications
Use with caution in people with depression

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

Not a first choice option for short- or long-term pain relief
Not recommended for older adults because of higher risk for side effects
Can't use if you have glaucoma, certain stomach or gut problems, urination or swallowing problems, or nerve problems that affect the muscles