Drug Comparison

Codeine Sulfate vs. Metaxalone

Compare Codeine Sulfate and Metaxalone: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.

Quick Comparison

CategoryCodeine SulfateMetaxalone
Drug ClassOpioid AnalgesicsSkeletal Muscle Relaxants
Rx StatusRxRx
Generic AvailableNoNo
Typical Cost$10–$50/month$200–$500/month

Codeine Sulfate Overview

CODEINE SULFATE (brand name: Codeine sulfate) is a Opioid Analgesics. 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Codeine Sulfate Tablets are indicated for the management of mild to moderate pain, where treatment with an opioid is appropriate and for which alternative treatments are inadequate. Limitations of Use: • Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, misuse, overdose, and death,…

Full Codeine Sulfate guide →

Metaxalone Overview

Metaxalone is a muscle relaxant used to relieve discomfort from acute, painful muscle and bone conditions. While its exact action isn't fully understood, it's thought to help by causing a calming effect. It's typically used alongside rest and physical therapy to help patients feel better.

Full Metaxalone guide →

How Each Drug Works

Codeine Sulfate

Codeine sulfate is an opioid agonist relatively selective for the mu-opioid receptor, but with a much weaker affinity than morphine. The analgesic properties of codeine have been speculated to come from its conversion to morphine, although the exact mechanism of analgesic action remains unknown.

Metaxalone

Metaxalone’s mechanism of action has not been fully characterized, but may be related to its sedative properties. Metaxalone has no direct action on the contractile mechanism of striated muscle, the motor end plate, or the nerve fiber.

Approved Uses (Indications)

Codeine Sulfate

Codeine Sulfate Tablets are indicated for the management of mild to moderate pain, where treatment with an opioid is appropriate and for which alternative treatments are inadequate. Limitations of Use:

  • Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, misuse, overdose, and death, which can occur at any dosage or duration and persist over the course of therapy [see Warnings and Precautions ] , reserve opioid analgesics, including Codeine Sulfate Tablets, for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inad…

Metaxalone

Metaxalone tablets are indicated as an adjunct to rest, physical therapy, and other measures for the relief of discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions in adults and pediatric patients 13 years of age and older. Metaxalone is a muscle relaxant indicated as an adjunct to rest, physical therapy, and other measures for the relief of discomforts associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions in adults and pediatric patients 13 years of age and older.

Side Effects

Codeine Sulfate

Metaxalone

Cost Comparison

Codeine Sulfate

$10–$50/month

As a generic medication, Codeine Sulfate is relatively inexpensive. Using a discount card or coupon can often reduce the cash price further.

Metaxalone

$200–$500/month

Since Metaxalone is only available as a brand-name drug, consider using manufacturer coupons or patient assistance programs to reduce costs. Discount cards like GoodRx may also offer some savings.

Compare prices for Codeine Sulfate and Metaxalone

Check real-time pharmacy prices before you fill — free, no account needed.

Medical Disclaimer

The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.