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.
