Brand Name: Soma
Generic Name: carisoprodol

Carisoprodol

(car-eye-so-PRO-dole)

ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL)
Relief of discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions as an adjunct to rest, physical therapy, and other measures.

BRAND NAME
Soma, Carisoma, Carisoprodol, Vanadom

DRUG CLASS
Skeletal muscle relaxant/Centrally acting

DESCRIPTION
Carisoprodol used for the short-term relief of muscle spasm.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Drowsiness, dizziness, vertigo (avoid driving or activities that require alertness); dizziness when you get up or climb stairs (avoid sudden changes in position, use caution climbing stairs); nausea (take drug with food; eat frequent small meals); insomnia, headache, depression (transient effects).

CAUTIONS

• Carisoprodol should not be taken by people with porphyria or by breastfeeding women.
• It should be used with caution in those with liver or kidney disease or a history of drug or alcohol abuse and in pregnant women.
• Treatment should be stopped gradually.
• Decreased kidney function
• Decreased liver function
• Elderly people
• Epilepsy
• History of alcoholism or drug abuse
• Muscle weakness

DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tricyclics, opioids, barbiturates, sedatives, hypnotics.

FOOD INTERACTIONS
Avoid alcohol.

HERBAL INTERACTIONS
Chamomile, kava, skullcap, valerian.

PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
Pregnancy category C.

SPECIAL INFORMATION

• Do not confuse: Soma / Soma Compound
• Take this drug exactly as prescribed; do not take a higher dosage; take with food if GI upset occurs.
• Avoid alcohol, sleep-inducing, or OTC drugs; these could cause dangerous effects; if you feel you need one of these preparations, consult your health care provider.