Muscle relaxers are useful to relieve pain. Several types of muscle relaxers are present, each having distinctive features and mechanisms. In the case of muscle relaxers the prominent comparison can be done on the basis of its effect, how quick it works, price range etc. Skelaxin and Robaxin both are musculoskeletal relaxant let's find out the difference between them.
Skelaxin and Robaxin are prescription-only medicines. They are primarily used to counter muscular pain.
Both belong to the drug class of skeletal muscle relaxants. Let us find out which one steps up.
What Is Skelaxin?
Skelaxin is a brand for the generic medicine Metaxalone. Skelaxin research was started in the 1960s. It is usually used for short
It was first tested on animals. Finally, it was approved by the FDA on 20th June 2002 (Toth, P.E. and Urtis, J., 2004).
What Is Robaxin?
Robaxin is a brand for the generic medicine Methocarbamol. The research on this medicine started in the 1950s. The FDA approved it on 16th July 1957.
You can also purchase Robaxin online from a certified online pharmacy but it is advised to take a doctor’s prescription before consuming any medications (Forsyth, H.F., 1958).
Skelaxin And Robaxin Body Mechanism
Skelaxin and Robaxin work by preventing the brain from transmitting pain sensation to the muscles. This helps in relaxing muscles and reducing stiffness in muscles (See, S. and Ginzburg, R., 2008).
Which Stands Out Between Skelaxin vs Robaxin?
Robaxin is mainly used in physical therapy and injuries. It is used for a long period of time. On the other hand, Skelaxin is used for a shorter duration, especially to tackle painful muscle spasms.
Robaxin is somewhat at a step higher compared to Skelaxin. This is because Skelaxin can make you feel drowsier than Robaxin (See, S. and Ginzburg, R., 2008).
Below Are Some Characteristics Of Skelaxin Vs Robaxin To Compare
Age Restrictions for Skelaxin and Robaxin
Those under the age of 12 are not allowed to take the medicine Skelaxin whereas those under the age of 16 should not be allowed to take Robaxin.
Availability and Cost of Skelaxin and Robaxin
On average, you can get the medication of Skelaxin at a price of 400$ for 90 tablets and Robaxin at a price of 337$ for 90 tablets.
Usability In Pain Reliving
Skelaxin is usually used in tackling short term muscle pain whereas Robaxin can be used forlong term or in chronic pain.
Time Of Effect Of Robaxin Vs Skelaxin
As a comparison, the Robaxin effect starts quickly after the consumption. Skelaxin takes about 30 mins for its effect in the body.
Precautions To Keep in Mind Before Taking Skelaxin And Robaxin
You should not take Skelaxin if you:
- Are on an empty stomach
- Are allergic to the medicine
- Are prone to liver ailments
- Are suffering from kidney ailments
- Have consumed alcohol
- Have smoked marijuana
As Skelaxin can make you drowsier, it is important that you do not perform any task that involves being alert, such as:
- Using heavy machinery
- Driving
- Mental Alertness Activities
Always inform the doctor if you are consuming any other medicine before starting with Skelaxin or Robaxin.
Skelaxin Formulations and Strengths
Forms |
Strengths |
Tablet |
400mg |
Tablet |
800mg |
Skelaxin Dosages
Age |
Dosing |
Adult |
800mg (3 to 4 times a day) |
Pediatric |
800mg (3 to 4 times a day) |
Robaxin Dosages
Adult (18-64 years) |
Pediatric (16-17 years) |
Start Dose: (6000mg per day) |
Start Dose: (6000mg per day) |
Continuation of dose- A person can take 4000mg -4500 mg per day (Dividing as per the doctor's recommendation) |
Continuation of Dose- The person is recommended to have 4000-4500mg per day |
In severe cases 8000mg can be used. |
It might vary from patient to patient. Doctor would recommend it as per the patient's condition. |
Senior Citizen Dosage For Robaxin
Unlike adults and teenagers in the case of senior citizens, age plays a paramount role. Senior citizens have a weaker body. They need to be mindful of their kidneys. They should avoid medicines that stay in their stomach for a longer period of time.
Side Effects from Skelaxin
- Mild side effects after consuming Skelaxin
- Fatigue
- Body weakness
- Mild headache
- Nausea
- Get anxiety
- Severe side effects after consuming Skelaxin
- Feel breathlessness
- Allergy of the face, mouth, and throat
Side Effects from Robaxin
- Mild side effects after Consuming Robaxin
- Mild headache
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Sleep disorder
- Blurred vision
Severe Side Effects After Consuming Robaxin
- Heartache
- Rashes on the body
- Yellow colored vision
- Itchiness
- Seizures
Conclusion
In a nutshell, if you are suffering from a short-term pain that is severe, you should consume Skelaxin. Whereas, if you are affected by various different muscle aches and pains, which are more long term in nature, then you should consume Robaxin. It is our conclusion that Robaxin is a step up.
- (Toth, P.E. and Urtis, J., 2004) accessed on March 10 2022.
- (Forsyth, H.F., 1958) accessed on March 10 2022.
- (See, S. and Ginzburg, R., 2008) accessed on March 09 2022.