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Tizanidine may not be the right choice for every patient. In such cases, it is important to discuss with a medical provider potential tizanidine alternatives.

Tizanidine Alternatives

What are your options when it comes to alternatives for tizanidine?

For Sleep

The sedative nature of tizanidine does make it a popular choice for those who struggle to sleep due to muscle pain or spasms. It is not the only medication that offers this benefit, though. Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)  is a muscle relaxant with similar properties. 

For Anxiety

There are many medications available for the treatment of anxiety disorders. Probably the most common is Valium (diazepam), which is a benzodiazepine that produces a calming effect. Xanax (alprazolam) is another popular benzodiazepine for anxiety. 

For Pain

Methocarbamol (Robaxin) is medication to treat short-term musculoskeletal pain. It has a less sedative effect but works best when combined with other treatment options like physical therapy. 

Like tizanidine, cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) is for the treatment of muscle spasms that might cause pain. It has similar sedative effects as tizanidine, so it works best at night. 

Metaxalone (Skelaxin) is one of the better-tolerated muscle relaxers, so it might be an alternative for pain management, as well. Metaxalone is a central nervous system depressant like tizanidine, so it offers similar benefits. 

For Cramps

Any muscle relaxant would be a suitable alternative for tizanidine in the treatment of cramps, including metaxalone (Skelaxin) and cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)

For Headaches

Muscle relaxants can sometimes be effective in the treatment of chronic headaches. Those who don’t do well on tizanidine might benefit from taking metaxalone (Skelaxin) and cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) because of their sedative effects. They might also consider clonazepam (brand name Klonopin), which is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety, seizures, and akathisia. 

For Hiccups

Some common choices for the treatment of hiccups include chlorpromazine (Thorazine, Largactil), which is an antipsychotic medication that can have a calming effect. Since hiccups are involuntary contractions, that calming might help end them. A similar option would include haloperidol (Haldol).

Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.


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