Muscle pain is a common condition among people, and it can occur due to various causes, including infections, injuries, or other diseases. Tizanidine and Soma are two popular muscle relaxants well known for their therapeutic uses. These two medications are intended for treating acute musculoskeletal pain associated with muscle spasms, joint pain, and other related conditions.

In this blog, we’ll compare Soma and Tizanidine, providing a detailed look at each drug’s uses, side effects, mechanism of action, interactions, dosage, and effectiveness. We will also help you make an informed decision on which medication might be best suited for your individual needs.

What Is Tizanidine?

Tizanidine, marketed under the brand name Zanaflex and others, is a muscle relaxant that was approved for medical use in the United States in 1996 [1].

Tizanidine tablets may have various imprint codes depending on the dosage and manufacturer. The most common imprint codes of this muscle relaxer are “U 168” and “U 169”.

What Is Soma (Carisoprodol)?

Soma is another muscle relaxer and is a brand name of Carisoprodol. It is prescribed for short-term use in conjunction with physical therapy and rest [2].

Carisoprodol Vs Tizanidine: Mechanism of Action

Tizanidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that works by blocking nerve impulses sent to the brain, leading to reduced muscle rigidity and spasms. On the other hand, Soma is believed to work by interrupting neuronal communication within the reticular formation and spinal cord, resulting in sedation and alterations in pain perception [3].

Similarities Between Tizanidine And Carisoprodol

Below are the key similarities between Carisoprodol and Tizanidine.

Short-term use: Both of these muscle relaxers are prescribed for short durations to avoid dependency and adverse effects.

Withdrawal risk: Discontinuing either medication abruptly may lead to withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, tapering is recommended.

Prescription required: Both Tizanidine and Soma are prescription-based medications.

Drug interactions: Both medicines have the potential to interact with central nervous system depressants, such as benzodiazepines, alcohol, and opioids. This can increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression.

Differences Between Soma And Tizanidine

Some of the notable differences between Soma and Tizanidine are as follows [4] –

Dosage Strengths And Doses: Tizanidine Vs Carisoprodol

Soma

Soma pills are available in two dosage strengths: Soma  350 mg and 500 mg. Beginners can take 350 mg of Soma, but the dose may vary depending on the patient’s condition and medical needs.

Tizanidine

Tizanidine pill is available in the form of capsules and tablets, as mentioned earlier, in three strengths: 2 mg, 4 mg, and 6 mg.

The standard dose of this muscle relaxer is 4 mg, with a maximum single dose recommended of 16 mg.

Precautions For Tizanidine And Soma

While taking either of the two medications, it is essential to follow the following preventive measures to minimize any possible side effects.

• Individuals with high blood pressure should not take Soma or Tizanidine without consulting a doctor.
• The consumption of Zanaflex and Soma is not recommended with alcohol since it can increase the risk of dizziness and drowsiness.
• Before using these medications, ensure you do not have any kidney, heart, or liver disorders.
• Inform your doctor about the administration of the medication before undergoing any surgery, including dental procedures.
• People above the age of 65 years are not advised to take the medication without a prescription.
• Breastfeeding and pregnant women should avoid administering the medications as they may affect the development and health of the infant.

Taking Soma With Tizanidine

As both Tizanidine and Soma are the same class of drug, using them together is not recommended. If taken together, Carisprodol and Tizanidine can result in drug interaction and can cause additive sedation, increased risk of mental confusion, and drowsiness. Using both these drugs together can also increase your risk of rebound spasticity upon discontinuation [5].

How Effective Are Both Zanaflex And Soma?

Both Soma (Carisoprodol) and Tizanidine (Zanaflex) are proven muscle relaxants with a long history of use.

A comparative study by Anil Pareek et al., published in 2009, evaluated the effectiveness of Tizanidine compared to Soma (Carisoprodol) in treating acute low back pain. Both medications demonstrated comparable efficacy in relieving muscular symptoms, with favorable safety profiles.

Soma Vs. Tizanidine: Conclusion

Both Tizanidine and Carisoprodol are potent muscle relaxants indicated to manage acute musculoskeletal pain and muscle spasms. While they have several similarities in factors such as potential for withdrawal, short-term use, their differences lie in onset and duration of action, abuse potential, and side effects.

• Soma has a faster onset of action and is rated highly by its users for effectiveness, but also carries a risk of dependence (although low risk).
• Tizanidine has a slower onset and shorter duration of action, and lower abuse potential.

Ultimately, the right choice between the two should be based on individual health status and medical history. Always consult a doctor while taking these medications and avoid taking them together as this can lead to drug interactions.