Drug Comparison

Metaxalone vs. Tapentadol Hydrochloride

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

Quick Comparison

CategoryMetaxaloneTapentadol Hydrochloride
Drug ClassSkeletal Muscle RelaxantsOpioid Analgesics
Rx StatusRxRx
Generic AvailableNoNo
Typical Cost$200–$500/month$300–$800/month

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 →

Tapentadol Hydrochloride Overview

TAPENTADOL HYDROCHLORIDE (brand name: Tapentadol Hydrochloride) is a Opioid Analgesics. 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Tapentadol tablets are indicated for the management of acute pain severe enough to require an opioid analgesic and for which alternative treatments are inadequate in adults. Limitations of Use Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, misuse, overdose, and death, which can…

Full Tapentadol Hydrochloride guide →

How Each Drug Works

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.

Tapentadol Hydrochloride

Tapentadol is a centrally-acting synthetic analgesic. The exact mechanism of action is unknown. Although the clinical relevance is unclear, preclinical studies have shown that tapentadol is a mu-opioid receptor (MOR) agonist and a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI). Analgesia in animal models is derived from both of these properties.

Approved Uses (Indications)

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.

Tapentadol Hydrochloride

Tapentadol tablets are indicated for the management of acute pain severe enough to require an opioid analgesic and for which alternative treatments are inadequate in adults. Limitations of Use Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, misuse, overdose, and death, which can occur at any dose or duration [see Warnings and Precautions ], and persist over the course of therapy, reserve opioid analgesics, including tapentadol tablets for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide su…

Side Effects

Metaxalone

Tapentadol Hydrochloride

Cost Comparison

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.

Tapentadol Hydrochloride

$300–$800/month

Since Tapentadol Hydrochloride is only available as a brand-name drug, look for manufacturer coupons or patient assistance programs to significantly reduce costs. Discount cards like GoodRx can also offer some savings.

Compare prices for Metaxalone and Tapentadol Hydrochloride

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.