Carisoprodol (Soma)

What Is Carisoprodol?

Carisoprodol is an FDA-approved drug well known for its potential to relieve discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions. This medication starts showing its effects within 30 minutes of intake and lasts for up to 6 hours.

Carisoprodol Brand Names

Carisoprodol is available in several brand names, such as Soma, Prosoma, Pain-O-Soma, Watson Soma, Carisoma, Somaflam, and Carisol.

These brand medications are formulated with Carisoprodol as the active ingredient and show similar efficacy and user benefits.

Carisoprodol Uses

Soma is effective in providing relief from moderate to severe skeletal muscle discomforts. Its fast-acting formulation sets it apart from other pain medications available. Here are some uses of the Soma muscle relaxer:

• Muscle spasms – The Soma pill can help relieve pain and discomfort in the muscle caused by muscle pull or spasms.

• Back Pain, neck, and joint pain.

• It can be very effective in managing pain associated with menstrual cramps.

How Carisoprodol Works?

Carisoprodol works on the person’s central nervous system to prevent pain signals from reaching the GABA receptor of the brain.

It is believed to increase the effects of the GABA neurotransmitter, which results in muscle relaxation and pain relief.

Carisoprodol Dosage Information

Carisoprodol is available in dosage strengths of 250, 350, and 500 mg. The standard dosage strength of this drug is 350 mg, and it is usually taken three times a day and during bedtime.

Proper Administration

• Carisoprodol pill should be directly swallowed with water.

• Do not break or crush the pill before administering it.

• Do not take other medications with the Soma pill to avoid drug interaction.

• Having a light meal before or after taking the Soma pill is advisable.

Carisoprodol Overdose

Some people may accidentally or intentionally consume a very large amount of Carisoprodol, leading to an overdose. In such cases, it is advised to seek medical help.

Some of the signs of Carisoprodol overdose are rapid heartbeat, hallucinations, coma, fainting, convulsions, stiffness of muscles, and slow or shallow breathing.

Carisoprodol Warnings And Precautions

Following preventive measures will help avoid adverse effects and help you get the best result from the muscle relaxer.

• It is not recommended for people above 65 years and children below 17 without a prescription.

• Inform your physician about Carisoprodol intake before surgery.

• Get an allergy test if you’re allergic to Meprobamate, Mebutamate, or Tybamate.

• Avoid Soma if you have a history of hypersensitivity to Meprobamate or Acute Intermittent Porphyria (AIP).

Carisoprodol Side Effects

The side effects of carisoprodol noted by the National Library of Medicine are headache, dizziness, skin rash, drowsiness, vomiting, upset stomach, and palpitation.

Severe side effects such as weakness, breathing issues, weakness, and burning in the eyes should be informed to a physician.

Improper dosing and long-term use of Carisoprodol or the Soma pill can result in abuse, causing agitation, depression, difficulty speaking, temporary vision issues, irritability, double vision, confusion, and euphoria.

Carisoprodol Interactions

Taking the Soma pill with other medications or compounds can result in drug interaction that may lower the effectiveness of the medicine or increase the risk of side effects. Around 349 drugs are known to interact with Carisoprodol. Some medications that should not be taken with the Soma pill are: