Soma
Generic Name: Carisoprodol
What is Soma?
Soma is a muscle relaxant used in combination with rest, physical therapy, and other measures, for the relief of severe and painful musculoskeletal conditions, such as muscle strains and spasms.What is the most important information I should know about Soma?
You need to follow the program of physical therapy, rest, or exercise that your doctor prescribes. Although the drug may temporarily provide relief from an injury, avoid lifting or exercising too soon to prevent further damage to the muscle.Although Soma relieves the pain of strains and sprains, it is not useful for other types of pain.
Treatment with Soma should be limited to 2-3 weeks. Cases of dependence, withdrawal, and abuse have been reported with prolonged use. If musculoskeletal symptoms still persist, contact your doctor for further evaluation. In rare cases, the first dose of Soma may cause unusual symptoms that appear within minutes or hours of taking the medication. Symptoms reported include: agitation, confusion, disorientation, dizziness, double vision, enlargement of pupils, extreme weakness, exaggerated feeling of well-being, lack of coordination, speech problems, temporary loss of vision, and temporary paralysis of arms and legs. These symptoms usually subside within a few hours. If you experience any of them, contact your doctor immediately.
Who should not take Soma?
Do not take Soma if you are sensitive to or ever had an allergic reaction to Soma or drugs of this type, such as meprobamate. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take this medication if you have porphyria (an inherited blood disorder).
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Soma?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver problems, a history of drug dependence, or if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults and adolescents ≥16 years: The usual dosage is one 250-milligram (mg) or 350-mg tablet, taken three times daily and at bedtime, for 2-3 weeks.
How should I take Soma?
Take Soma exactly as prescribed by your doctor, taken with or without food.What should I avoid while taking Soma?
Do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how this drug affects you.Avoid abruptly discontinuing treatment. Withdrawal symptoms, including abdominal cramps, chilliness, headache, insomnia, and nausea, have occurred in people who suddenly stop taking Soma.
Avoid alcohol while taking Soma.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Soma?
If Soma is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Soma with the following: alcohol, alprazolam, antidepressants (MAO inhibitors and tricyclics), haloperidol, major tranquilizers, meprobamate, triazolam,What are the possible side effects of Soma?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: agitation, depression, dizziness, drowsiness, facial flushing, fainting, headache, hiccups, inability to fall or stay asleep, irritability, lightheadedness upon standing up, loss of coordination, nausea, rapid heart rate, stomach upset, tremors, vertigo, vomiting
Can I receive Soma if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Soma during pregnancy are unknown. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. This drug appears in breast milk and could affect a breastfeeding baby. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.What should I do if I miss a dose of Soma?
Take it as soon as you remember if only an hour or so has passed. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Soma?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
