Generic Name: carisoprodol (kar eye
soe PROE dole)
Typical Brand Names: Soma, Vanadom
What Is It Used For?
Soma is used, along with rest and physical therapy, to treat injuries
and other painful muscular conditions. It is also used for many
other purposes other than those listed in medication guides.
How Is It Used?
Soma comes in the forms of tablets, which should be taken with
a full glass (8 ounces) of water. The maximum amount of carisoprodol
you should take in one day is 1,400 mg (4 tablets). The usual
adult dosage of soma is one 350 mg tablet, three times daily and
at bedtime. Usage in patients under age 12 is not recommended.
It is recommended that you take Soma with food, or with milk,
to minimize the possibility of a stomach upset as a result of
taking the medication.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
Serious side effects from Soma are unlikely to occur; however
an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; sleepiness, sore throat;
fatigue, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); paralysis
or extreme weakness; vision loss, agitation or tremor. If these
effects persist or worsen or you notice some other effects, notify
your doctor immediately.
Less serious side effects like: dizziness, headache, depression,
insomnia or hiccups are more likely to occur. Talk to your doctor
about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially
bothersome.
Is It Safe?
Avoid carisoprodol if you have acute intermittent porphyria. It
is not known whether Soma will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do
not take Soma without first talking to your doctor if you are
pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is also
not known whether Soma passes into breast milk and may affect
a nursing infant. So, do not take Soma without first talking to
your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Many drugs can increase the effects of carisoprodol, which can
lead to heavy sedation. Before taking this medication, tell your
doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines: antihistamines
such as brompheniramine, chlorpheniramine, azatadine, clemastine;
narcotics (pain killers) such as meperidine morphine, hydrocodone
and codeine; sedatives such as phenobarbital and amobarbital;
phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, and thioridazine;
antidepressants such as doxepin, nortriptyline, Prozac, Paxil,
and Zoloft.
What If I Miss A Dose?
If you have missed any dose, use it as soon as you remember. However,
if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip
the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use a
double dose of this medication. And try to keep your doses at
least 4 hours apart.
How Should It Be Stored?
Soma should be kept at a room temperature ranging between 15°
to 30°C (59°-86°F). Dispense in a tight container
and keep it away from moisture and heat.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Use vigilance while driving, operating machinery, or performing
other hazardous activities. Although unlikely, Soma may sometimes
cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or
drowsiness, avoid these activities. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol
may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking carisoprodol.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist,
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to
indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
taking the product.
