Tizanidine and cyclobenzaprine are two commonly used muscle relaxers.
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Differences and Similarities
What Is Tizanidine?
Tizanidine, which is often sold under the brand name Zanaflex, is a short-acting muscle relaxer.
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Tizanidine is not ideal for back or neck pain.
Tizanidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist.
Its effects are temporary because it is short-acting and does not last long in the body.
Treatment should be used as needed for symptom relief.
This medication is available in tablet and capsule forms.
Talk to your healthcare provider about stopping tizanidine if you experience hallucinations.
Avoid using tizanidine with alcohol or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, such asbenzodiazepinesand opioids.
What Is Cyclobenzaprine?
Cyclobenzaprine, which is sold under the brand name Amrix, is also a short-acting muscle relaxer.
Preventing Side Effects
It is important to monitor the potential side effects of tizanidine and cyclobenzaprine clearly.
Side effects are also an important factor to consider when determining which medication is best for you.
Tizanidine and cyclobenzaprine are two effective, commonly used muscle relaxers.
They work differently but also have some similarities.
These medications have similar side effects and interact with a variety of medications.
See S, Ginzburg R.Choosing a skeletal muscle relaxant.Am Fam Physician.
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2004 Aug;28(2):140-75. doi.org/10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2004.05.002
American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Spasticity.
Prescribers' Digital Reference.Zanaflex.
Prescribers' Drug Reference.Flexeril.
