Carisoprodol (Soma)
Carisoprodol, commonly sold under the brand name Soma is a powerful muscle relaxant and pain medication used most often to treat acute pain due to muskoskeletal injury. Carisoprodol is widely prescribed despite its potential for abuse and dependence. Popular mixtures of this medication also include aspirin and codeine. Originally formulated as an antiseptic it was show to have powerful effects on musculature and has since been prescribed almost exclusively for these conditions. Its main mechanism is to block pain sensations between the brain and the body's nerves.
Proper Usage of Carisoprodol (Soma)
Carisoprodol (Soma) is available in tablet form and should only be taken as directed by a doctor and you should not take Carisoprodol for longer periods than prescribed since this medication is most often taken for short duration muscle injuries. It is possible for Carisoprodol medications to become habit forming so users should avoid taking for extended periods of time.
Soma begins working rapidly (with 30 minutes of ingestion) with the effects lasting up to 6 hours. Carisoprodol is processed in the liver where it is turned into meprobamate which is a drug known for its strong abuse potential.
Carisoprodol (Soma) should be taken with water and never in larger doses than have been prescribed. If a dosage is missed, it should be taken immediately upon remembering unless it is time for your next scheduled dosage. DO NOT consume additional amounts of Soma to "catch up" to your schedule.
Precautions When Taking Carisoprodol (Soma)
Notify your physicians (your Dentist included) prior to having any medical procedure performed to avoid dangerous drug interactions.
Do not use Carisoprodol (Soma) if you experience the condition known as porphyria or if you have: allergies to any medications, kidney and liver disease or epilepsy. As with all prescription medications, you should not take Carisoprodol if you are pregnant.
Do not suddenly stop taking this medication if you have used it regularly over a period of time (several weeks) without consulting a physician. In most cases it is recommended that you gradually reduce the dosage over time when your prescribed duration ends. This is preferred due to the possible withdrawal symptoms that can occur.
Carisoprodol (Soma) should not be given to children under the age of 12.
Carisoprodol can impair your ability to think and react quickly so it is not recommended that users drive or perform any tasks requiring alertness. Cold and allergy medications can add to this effect.
Drug Interactions
If you suffer from any of the following medical conditions, notify your doctor before taking Carisoprodol:
- Substance Abuse of Any Kind
- Kidney Disease
- Alcohol Abuse
- Liver Disease
- Epilepsy
- Heart Disease
Common Brand Names for Carisoprodol
- Soma
- Sanoma
- Carisoma
- Soma + Codeine
- Soma + Aspirin
Side Effects of Carisoprodol (Soma)
There are some side effects that can occur with Carisoprodol (Soma). These include (but are not limited to): Agitation, Increased Heartrate, Loss of Vision, Seizures, Paralysis, Loss of Coordination, Nausea, Lack of Sleep, Headache, Depression, Dizziness, Irritability, Drowsiness, Tremors, Vertigo. If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately contact yoru doctor.