Methocarbamol vs Metaxalone

Introduction

According to WHO (World Health Organization), around 1.71 billion people suffer from musculoskeletal conditions worldwide. Methocarbamol and Metaxalone are muscle relaxants that are prescribed to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. Both drugs work in slightly different ways to offer pain relief.[1]

About Methocarbamol and Metaxalone

What is Methocarbamol?

Methocarbamol was first approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in 1957. It is a centrally-acting skeletal muscle relaxant sold under the name Robaxin. Methocarbamol is a short-term pain relief medication for patients with musculoskeletal conditions. It is usually used in conjunction with other treatments like physical therapy. It is a less preferred treatment option for low back pain.[2][3]

What conditions is Methocarbamol approved to treat?

Methocarbamol has been approved to treat muscle spasms. Specific FDA guidelines for using this drug for other conditions have yet to be explored.[4]

How does Methocarbamol work for musculoskeletal conditions?

Methocarbamol is a short-acting pain relief drug that relieves pain by inhibiting the nerve impulses (sensations of pain) sent to the brain. It is an effective drug for pain relief and works great in conjunction with other treatment options, like physical therapy, in treating the discomfort associated with several skeletal muscle conditions.

What is Metaxalone?

Metaxalone was approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in 2002. It is a muscle relaxant that is sold under the name Skelaxin. It is usually prescribed for pain relief to individuals with musculoskeletal conditions like sprains and strains. It is a fast-acting muscle relaxant with fewer side effects than other muscle relaxants.[5]

What conditions is Metaxalone approved to treat?

Metaxalone is approved for treating skeletal muscle conditions like injury or pain.[6]

How does Metaxalone work for musculoskeletal conditions?

According to the FDA, the mechanism of action of Metaxalone is unknown and has yet to be investigated. However, it is believed to be related to CNS (central nervous system) depression. Experts believe the medication works by restricting pain sensations (nerve impulses) in the brain.[7]

Effectiveness

How effective are Methocarbamol and Metaxalone for treating musculoskeletal conditions?

Metaxalone and methocarbamol are widely prescribed medications to relieve pain linked to musculoskeletal conditions. However, there is inconsistent and limited information on the effectiveness of metaxalone and methocarbamol for treating musculoskeletal conditions. A study conducted in 2020 surrounding the real-life tolerability and efficiency of methocarbamol in individuals with refractory muscle-related low/back pain showed that after 4 weeks of treatment with methocarbamol, patients reported a significant improvement in the intensity of their pain.

Another double-blind study that aimed to look at the effectiveness of metaxalone and placebo showed that metaxalone is an effective medication in treating musculoskeletal conditions. The study revolved around a group of 180 participants, out of which 91 were given metaxalone and 89 received a placebo. The study found that 86.8% who received the medication experienced an improvement in their symptoms compared to 37.0% among the participants who received a placebo.[8][9]

Dosage information

How is Methocarbamol administered for musculoskeletal conditions?

Methocarbamol is available for use in tablet form. The medication is meant to be administered orally and is usually taken approximately four times a day initially. However, the dose of Methocarbamol you will be prescribed depends on your health condition and the severity of your symptoms.[10]

Methocarbamol dosage information

The following table includes dosage information for Methocarbamol for treating muscle spasms:

.rb-lazy { display: none; }

How is Metaxalone administered for musculoskeletal conditions?

Metaxalone is available in tablet form and is intended to be taken orally. Doctors normally recommend taking it three to four times each day. The dose of Metaxalone your healthcare provider will recommend highly depends on your condition and the severity of your symptoms.[11]

Metaxalone dosage information

The following table includes dosage information for Metaxalone for treating muscle spasms[12]:

.rb-lazy { display: none; }

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of Methocarbamol?

The most common side effects of Methocarbamol include:

Drowsiness
Dizziness
Upset stomach
Blurred vision
Fever
Blue, black, or green urine

Are there any potential serious side effects of Methocarbamol?

Potentially serious side effects of Methocarbamol include:

Allergic reaction (itching, rash)
Fainting
Slowed heartbeat
Seizures
Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)

Important! If you experience serious side effects, seek medical help immediately.

What are the most common side effects of Metaxalone?

The most common side effects of Metaxalone include:

Drowsiness
Stomach or bowel upset
Irritability

Are there any potential serious side effects of Metaxalone?

Potentially serious side effects of Metaxalone include:

Agitation
Leg, back, or stomach pains
Black, tarry stools
Swollen or puffy eyelids
Swelling around the face, lips, or tongue
Redness of the skin
Restlessness
Fever
General body swelling
Headache
Itching, skin rash, hives
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Bleeding gums
Bad breath
Talking or acting with excitement (uncontrollable)
Chest tightness
Shaking or trembling
Twitching
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Unusual weakness
Vomiting
Vomiting blood
Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin)
Pale skin
Poor coordination
Chest pain
Chills
Clay-colored stools
Confusion
Cough
Dark colored urine
Diarrhea
Talking or acting with excitement (uncontrollable)
Chest tightness
Shaking or trembling
Sore throat
White spots, ulcers, or sores on the lips or in the mouth
Stomach ache
Sweating
Swelling of the tongue, face, or throat
Swollen glands
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Dizziness
Fast heartbeat
Nosebleed
Difficulty urinating
Pain during urination

Important! If you experience serious side effects, seek medical help immediately.

Contraindications and interactions

Warnings and general precautions for Methocarbamol and Metaxalone

Metaxalone and Methocarbamol use has been linked with impaired physical and mental capabilities required to perform tasks like operating heavy machinery, especially when mixed when consumed with alcohol. If administered higher than the recommended dosage, these medications may also cause one to develop a life-threatening health condition called serotonin syndrome.[13]

Contraindications and important interactions for Methocarbamol and Metaxalone

Contradictions and important interactions for methocarbamol and Metaxalone include:

.rb-lazy { display: none; }

Cost Comparison

How much do Methocarbamol and Metaxalone cost?

500 mg Methocarbamol oral tablets (18 tablets) cost approximately $12, whereas 800 mg Metaxalone oral tablets (30 tablets) cost approximately $56. The cost of these medications can vary depending on the geographical location and pharmacy you visit.[14][15]

Popularity of Methocarbamol and Metaxalone

Methocarbamol and metaxalone are both commonly recommended medications for musculoskeletal conditions. Although there is limited data on the effectiveness of both drugs, they have become a preferred prescription choice for health practitioners due to their minimal sedation adverse effects. However, in certain cases, Metaxalone may be preferred by healthcare professionals due to its comparatively fewer severe side effects.[16]

Conclusion

Takeaway

Methocarbamol and Metaxalone are centrally-acting skeletal muscle relaxants that help relieve pain and discomfort in patients suffering from musculoskeletal conditions. Both medications are highly effective in relieving pain. However, they have different mechanisms of action and onset times.

Although both Methocarbamol and Metaxalone have side effects, Metaxalone is linked with more adverse side effects. However, these side effects are rare. It is important to consult with your doctor and provide them with your accurate medical history and other relevant information to allow them to choose the drug best suited to treat your condition.