GENERIC NAME: carisoprodol
BRAND NAME: Soma
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Carisoprodol is a muscle
relaxant. It
acts by blocking electrical communication among nerves in the
reticular
formation of the brain and in the spinal cord.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 350mg.
STORAGE: Tablets should be stored between 15° and
30°C
(59° and 86°F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Carisoprodol is used together with
rest and
physical therapy for short-term relief of painful muscle
conditions.
DOSING: Carisoprodol is most often prescribed three
times daily
and at bedtime but should be taken according to the physician's
recommendations.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Carisoprodol interacts with other
medications and drugs that slow the brain's processes, such as
alcohol,
barbiturates, benzodiazepines (e.g. lorazepam, Ativan), and
narcotics.
PREGNANCY: There are no adequate studies of
carisoprodol in
pregnant women. Physicians may use it if its benefits are
deemed to
outweigh unknown risks.
NURSING MOTHERS: Carisoprodol accumulates in breast
milk in
concentrations twice those of the mother's blood. The effects of
carisoprodol on the infants of lactating mothers are unknown.
Therefore,
caution is indicated when using carisoprodol in lactating
women.
SIDE EFFECTS: Among the most common side effects of
carisoprodol are drowsiness, dizziness, agitation, nervousness,
tremor,
irritability, inability to sleep, and depression.
Additional drug information:
Soma (carisoprodol) FDA approved labeling at RxList.
http://www.rxlist.com/soma-drug/article.htm
Last Editorial Review: 5/11/1998
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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