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Compare Zanaflex vs. Norflex

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

Key takeaways

Tizanidine (Zanaflex) and orphenadrine (Norflex) are both muscle relaxers, but they have some key differences. Tizanidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist that works by slowing down nerves in your spinal column to relax muscles. It's typically taken three times a day and can cause side effects like low blood pressure, dry mouth, and sleepiness. Orphenadrine, on the other hand, is thought to work by blocking nerve signals between your spinal cord and muscles, though its exact mechanism is unclear. It's usually taken twice a day and can cause dry mouth, headache, and drowsiness. Unlike tizanidine, orphenadrine is not recommended for older adults and people with certain conditions like glaucoma or stomach problems. Both medications are available in generic forms, but tizanidine is also available in both tablet and capsule forms, while orphenadrine can be taken as a tablet or given as an injection by a healthcare professional.

  • Tizanidine (Zanaflex)
    Orphenadrine
  • Tizanidine (Zanaflex)
    Orphenadrine

  • Summary of Zanaflex vs. Norflex

    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

    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 of Zanaflex vs. Norflex

    Indications for
    •Muscle stiffness and rigidity
    Indications for
    •Relief of muscle discomfort from short-term muscle conditions

  • Pros and Cons of Zanaflex vs. Norflex

    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
    •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

  • Common Side Effects of Zanaflex vs. Norflex

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

  • Warnings of Zanaflex vs. Norflex

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

  • Prices with our coupons for Zanaflex vs. Norflex

    Learn more about Tizanidine
    Learn more about Orphenadrine

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