Medications and Drugs

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

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information

Last Editorial Review: 5/11/1998

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