What is Orphenadrine: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Orphenadrine overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Orfro, Antiflex, Norflex

Generic Names:

  • Orphenadrine Citrate

Uses:

  • Used with rest, physical therapy, and other measures to relieve discomfort caused by certain health problems or by injuries (such as sprains or strains).

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Skeletal Muscle Relaxant, Centrally Acting

Forms:

  • Injectable

How it’s taken:

  • By injection

What is Orphenadrine used for?

What form(s) does Orphenadrine come in

  • Injectable

What are common Orphenadrine doses?

  • Vial 2ML of 30MG/ML

Common Orphenadrine prescriptions

  • Orphenadrine Citrate
    2ml of 30mg/ml ampule

  • Orphenadrine Citrate
    2ml of 30mg/ml vial

How to take Orphenadrine

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into a muscle or a vein.

  • Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

  • Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into a muscle or a vein.

What to do if you miss a dose of Orphenadrine

  • Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Orphenadrine contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to orphenadrine. You should not use this medicine if you have glaucoma, myasthenia gravis, an enlarged prostate, or urinary tract blockage. Ask your doctor before using this medicine if you have digestive tract problems such as a stomach ulcer, intestinal blockage, or megaesophagus (enlarged or dilated esophagus).

Orphenadrine warnings

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have asthma, heart problems, or an allergy to sulfites.

  • This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Orphenadrine interactions

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using propoxyphene (such as Darvon® or Darvocet®).

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have asthma, heart problems, or an allergy to sulfites.

  • This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Orphenadrine side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Confusion, anxiety, unusual thoughts, or hallucinations (sensing things that are not there).

  • Fast or pounding heartbeat.

  • Lightheadedness or fainting.

  • Weakness, tremors, or shaking.

  • Trouble urinating, or a decrease in how much or how often you urinate.

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Stomach upset, nausea and vomiting, or constipation.

  • Headaches.

  • Trouble urinating, or a decrease in how much or how often you urinate.

  • Weakness, tremors, or shaking.

  • Dry mouth.

  • Blurred vision.

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