Soma (Carisoprodol)

Soma (its generic form is Carisoprodol) is a muscle pain and spasm treatment that is prescribed to adults and cannot be used as a long-term drug. Soma blocks the “pain signals” that nerves in muscles send to the brain and makes muscles relax. Patients are usually advised to rest, do physiotherapy exercises and take other medication along with Soma. The medicine should not be used for more than two or three weeks because patients can develop addiction to it, and its effectiveness in long terms has not yet been proven.

Soma is produced in tablets of 250 mg and 350 mg, that have to be stored at room temperature and swallowed with some water (during the meal or between the meals – doesn't matter). It is not recommended to deviate from medical advisor's instructions when using it. Usually Soma has to be taken four times daily, and its dosage depends on several factors. Don't take it longer than prescribed or in larger doses as it might not be more effective but only increase the risk of having adverse effects. On the other hand, don't stop taking the drug without specialist's approval as there might be withdrawal symptoms: stomach pain, headache, etc. Avoid drinking alcohol when using Soma because the drug may worsen its side effects.

Most common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, sleepiness and headache, and sometimes patients can also have dry eyes or mouth, problems with urinating or constipation. Consult your doctor about those effects if they are very uncomfortable for you or worsen. Serious reactions include convulsions, unusual weakness, extreme dizziness, paralysis, allergic reactions (swelling, itching, rash) and agitation. Get medical help as soon as possible if you get any of those. Other than that, in rare cases Soma causes erythema multiforme: the skin reddens and peels off, and blisters appear on it. This can be fatal, so call the emergency as soon as you suspect you have it.

The most serious contraindications are allergy to carisoprodol, meprobamate and porphyria, so you should not take Soma if you have it. Moreover, don't take the drug during pregnancy or when you are breastfeeding, as it may harm the baby. Also, children of 12 and younger should not take Soma. Other serious contraindications include liver and kidney diseases, seizure disorders (epilepsy, etc.), so you have to pass tests to make sure the drug is safe for you. Besides, inform your doctor if you have ever been addicted to alcohol or drugs. Soma can interact with many different drugs including over-the-counter medications (vitamins, herbs, etc.). Please inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you take before using it. Nowadays it is very convenient to buy necessary drugs on the Internet, and Soma is not an exception. Online stores offer not only high quality medications, but suitable prices, delivery and other services.