Overview Of Carisoprodol (Soma)

Potential Side Effects

Similar to many muscle relaxants, carisoprodol may cause drowsiness, lethargy, and dizziness. Some patients also have digestive symptoms like nausea, vomiting, gas, and an upset stomach. It is also common for individuals taking this medication to experience mood-related changes such as depression, irritability, nervousness, and agitation. An inability to sleep might occur, and headaches and blurred vision are also common. Many patients report having hiccups after taking carisoprodol, even when they have not done anything that would cause them.

The potential dependence is why the medication is not prescribed for more than a few weeks at a time. Withdrawal symptoms are well documented in patients who have taken carisoprodol for long periods. There also are not enough studies on this medication's effects on pregnant women. However, it does accumulate in breast milk when women are nursing.

Get information on precautions associated with this medication next.

Precautions To Remember

Patients should not take carisoprodol for more than three weeks at a time. In addition, this is not an appropriate medication for chronic pain. Individuals who have used this medicine for long periods need to withdraw under a doctor's supervision rather than quitting suddenly, as the effects of withdrawal can be dangerous. Carisoprodol interacts with other substances and medications that relax the muscles and slow the nervous system, including alcohol. Pregnant mothers should not take this medication, as there have not been studies proving that it is safe to do so. Nursing mothers should also be cautious, as carisoprodol can end up in high concentrations in their breast milk.

Patients also need to make sure that they follow all of their doctor's dosing instructions. They need to take this medication at the prescribed time intervals. It is vital that they do not skip doses or take extra doses.

Reveal the potential medication interactions next.