Can You Take Flexeril With Tylenol?

In our latest question and answer, Dr. Brian Staiger discusses whether or not it is safe to combine Tylenol and Flexeril.

Question

I take Tylenol to help with my arthritis. I also take the muscle relaxant Flexeril. Are they safe to combine?

Asked by Kevin On Dec 21, 2022

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Dec 21, 2022
Last updated Mar 28, 2024

Key points

  • There is no known drug interaction between Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine).

Answer

There is no known interaction between Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine). They are considered safe to use together.

In fact, it's not uncommon that these drugs are combined. They both work differently to treat different types of pain.

Tylenol is an over-the-counter pain-reliever and fever reducer. It is best suited to treat minor aches and pain, and, of course, can help bring a temperature down if you have a fever. It is also a first-line recommended pain reliever for osteoarthritis, which you mentioned is a condition you have.

Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) on the other hand, is classified as a muscle relaxer. While Tylenol is thought to work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, Flexeril relieves muscle spasms at the brain stem level, and may also affect certain motor neurons and neurotransmitters, like serotonin, as well.

As mentioned, Flexeril and Tylenol are considered safe to use together. Their combined use won't affect either drug and they don't share similar side effects, for the most part.

Final Words

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References

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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