CARISOPRODOL - ORAL (Soma) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

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CARISOPRODOL-ORAL Index

carisoprodol - oral, Soma

GENERIC NAME: CARISOPRODOL - ORAL (kar-iss-oh-PRO-dole)

BRAND NAME(S): Soma

USES: This medication is used short-term to treat pain and discomfort from muscle injuries such as strains, sprains, and spasms. It is usually used along with rest, physical therapy, and other treatments (e.g., anti-inflammatory medication).Carisoprodol is called a centrally acting muscle relaxant. It works on the nerves to relieve muscle pain. It may also relieve pain by calming your nervous system.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually 4 times a day or as directed by your doctor.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor will usually direct you to take this medication for your current injury only. Do not save this drug for future use. Follow your doctor's directions on when to reduce your dose, take it less often, or stop taking it.This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as stomach cramps, trouble sleeping, headache, nausea) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.Though it is very unlikely to occur, this medication can also result in abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction/habit-forming). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed. This will lessen the chances of becoming addicted.Tell your doctor if your symptoms persist or worsen after 2 to 3 weeks.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, unusually fast heartbeat, low blood pressure, or face flushing may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Sometimes carisoprodol may cause a very rare but serious reaction (idiosyncratic) that occurs within minutes or hours of the first dose of this medication. Seek immediate medical attention and do not take more of the medication if you experience: extreme weakness, inability to move your legs/arms, shaky/unsteady movement, pain in your joints, vision changes (double vision, inability to see), widened pupils, mental/mood changes (e.g., agitation, restlessness, unexplained mood swings, confusion).A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.