Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) is used in treating pain due to muscle spasms and other musculoskeletal pains. Flexeril is a popular muscle relaxant that intercepts the pain signals sent by the brain. Flexeril muscle relaxer is, however, not a substitute for rest or physiotherapy.

Flexeril is not recommended for everyone. It should be avoided by children below12 years of age, pregnant women, and those who have a history of cardiac-related illness. Patients who have undergone an MAOI treatment in the previous few days should also avoid Flexeril. The dosage of Flexeril Pain Reliever depends on age, medical conditions, and other medications the patient is taking. The recommended dosage is 5mg three times daily, which can be increased to 10mg as per needed. People with liver problems and elderly people, the dosage is less-frequent.

Side effects can be both serious as well as mild ones. Serious side effects include allergic reactions that need immediate medical attention. The symptoms are swellings on lips, mouth, throat, or tongue accompanied with difficulty in breathing. Other serious symptoms include chest pain, increased heart rate, fainting, nausea, convulsions, jaundice, bleeding, and disabled vision and speech. Mild side effects include dizziness, tiredness, diarrhea or constipation, gastric gas formation, etc. Mild side effects can be controlled with a reduced dosage.

Soma (Carisoprodol) is another muscle relaxant is a habit-forming drug if not taken properly. This drug should be avoided by drug abusers or drug addicts. If used for longer period of time, the patient is likely to have withdrawal symptoms. Compared to Flexeril, Soma muscle relaxer can be taken along with physiotherapy. Prolonged use of Soma can cause cognitive impairment. The drug should be avoided in situations where one needs to be alert and awake. Alcohol should also be avoided.

Soma muscle relaxant should be taken as per the prescription. Overdose symptoms are breathing problem, impaired vision, increased heart rate, hallucinations, seizures, muscle spasms, and fainting. Drug overdose should seek immediate medical attention. Pregnant ladies, children below 12 years old, and drug addicts should avoid using Soma muscle relaxer.

The standard dosage of Soma is 250mg to 350mg three times daily. If drowsiness is felt, the drug should be taken only at night.