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Compare Zanaflex vs. Flexeril

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

Key takeaways

Tizanidine (Zanaflex) and cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) are both muscle relaxants, but they have some key differences. Tizanidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist that treats muscle stiffness and rigidity, often related to conditions like multiple sclerosis. It's taken up to three times a day and can cause side effects like low blood pressure, dry mouth, and sleepiness. Cyclobenzaprine, on the other hand, is used for short-term muscle pain and discomfort from acute conditions, such as injuries. It comes in immediate-release tablets taken three times a day or extended-release capsules taken once a day. Cyclobenzaprine can also cause drowsiness and dry mouth, but it has additional risks like serotonin syndrome when combined with certain medications. While both medications are available in generic forms, tizanidine is not recommended for people with liver or kidney problems, whereas cyclobenzaprine should be used cautiously in those with liver issues.

  • Tizanidine (Zanaflex)
    Cyclobenzaprine
  • Tizanidine (Zanaflex)
    Cyclobenzaprine

  • Summary of Zanaflex vs. Flexeril

    Summary for Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Tizanidine (Zanaflex) is a muscle relaxer used to treat stiff, rigid muscles. It's taken by mouth, typically 3 times a day. Tizanidine (Zanaflex) isn't a controlled substance, so it isn't known to cause an addiction. But it does have several risks and warnings for side effects such as low blood pressure, dry mouth, and sleepiness. Tizanidine (Zanaflex) comes as both brand and generic name tablets and capsules.

    Summary for Muscle relaxant
    Prescription only

    Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant used in addition to rest and physical therapy to treat muscle pain and discomfort. It's available as an immediate-release (IR) tablet and an extended-release (ER) capsule. Unlike other muscle relaxants, it's not considered a controlled substance. Cyclobenzaprine can make you sleepy as a side effect so it's best to avoid alcohol to prevent serious harm from combining the two together.

  • Indications of Zanaflex vs. Flexeril

    Indications for
    •Muscle stiffness and rigidity
    Indications for
    •Muscle discomfort caused by acute (not long-term) conditions

  • Pros and Cons of Zanaflex vs. Flexeril

    Pros and Const for Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Works very quickly
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Capsules can be opened and sprinkled on applesauce
    •Can be taken only as needed
    •Multiple strengths available, so you can customize your dose easier
    Cons
    •Taken multiple times a day
    •Stopping it suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as muscle rigidity and high blood pressure
    •Food can affect how well your body absorbs tizanidine (Zanaflex)
    •Not a good option for people with liver and kidney problems
    •Can cause dizziness, sleepiness, and low blood pressure as side effects
    Pros and Const for Muscle relaxant
    Pros
    •Works well to relieve muscle spasms
    •Available as an IR tablet and ER capsule
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Can use if you have kidney problems
    Cons
    •Can make you feel dizzy and sleepy
    •Only meant for short-term use (up to 2 to 3 weeks)
    •Doesn't work for muscle spasms caused by brain or spinal injuries
    •Might not be a good option if you're 65 years or older or have liver problems because of higher risk of side effects

  • Common Side Effects of Zanaflex vs. Flexeril

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dry mouth (49%)
    •Sleepiness (48%)
    •Weakness (41%)
    •Dizziness (16%)
    •Urinary tract infection (10%)
    Common Side Effects for

    Immediate-release tablets:

    •Drowsiness (up to 39%)
    •Dry mouth (up to 32%)
    •Dizziness (up to 11%)
    •Feeling tired (up to 6%)
    •Headache (up to 5%)

    Extended-release capsules:

    •Dry mouth (6-14%)
    •Dizziness (3-6%)
    •Indigestion (up to 4%)
    •Nausea (3%)
    •Feeling tired (3%)
    •Constipation (1-3%)
    •Drowsiness (1-2%)

  • Warnings of Zanaflex vs. Flexeril

    Common Side Effects for
    •Low blood pressure
    •Extreme sleepiness
    •Worsening drowsiness (from medication interactions)
    •Higher risk of tizanidine side effects (in people with kidney problems)
    •Liver damage
    •Hallucinations
    •Withdrawal symptoms
    •Allergic reactions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Dry mouth, dry eyes, and trouble urinating
    •Caution use in people with liver problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Zanaflex vs. Flexeril

    Learn more about Tizanidine
    Learn more about Cyclobenzaprine

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