Soma

Soma Information

Brand Name: Soma

Generic Name: Carisoprodol, Generic Soma

Other Common Names: Carisiprodol

Soma (carisoprodol) is indicated as an adjunct to rest, physical therapy, and other measures for the relief of discomfort associated with acute, painful, musculoskeletal conditions. The mode of action of Soma (carisoprodol) has not been clearly identified, but may be related to its sedative properties. Soma (carisoprodol) does not directly relax tense skeletal muscles in man.

Soma Ingredients and Composition

How Does Soma Work?

Carisoprodol, the active ingredient in Soma, produces muscle relaxation in animals by blocking interneuronal activity in the descending reticular formation and spinal cord. The onset of action is rapid and effects last four to six hours.

How To Take Soma and Soma Dosage and Administration

The usual adult dosage of Soma (carisoprodol) is one 350 mg tablet, three times daily and at bedtime. Usage in patients under age 12 is not recommended.

If you suspect a Soma Overdose

Soma overdose has produced stupor, coma, shock, respiratory depression, and, very rarely, death. The effects of an overdosage of Soma (carisoprodol) and alcohol or other CNS depressants or psychotropic agents can be additive even when one of the drugs has been taken in the usual recommended dosage. Any drug remaining in the stomach should be removed and symptomatic therapy given. Should respiration or blood pressure become compromised, respiratory assistance, central nervous system stimulants, and pressor agents should be administered cautiously as indicated. Carisoprodol, the active ingredient in Soma, is metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidney. Although carisoprodol overdosage experience is limited, the following types of treatment have been used successfully with the related drug meprobamate: diuresis, osmotic (mannitol) diuresis, peritoneal dialysis, and hemodialysis (carisoprodol is dialyzable). Careful monitoring of urinary output is necessary and caution should be taken to avoid overhydration. Observe for possible relapse due to incomplete gastric emptying and delayed absorption. Soma (carisoprodol) can be measured in biological fluids by gas chromatography.

Soma Side Effects

Soma Precautions and Contraindications

Carisoprodol, the active ingredient in Soma, is metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidney; to avoid its excess accumulation, caution should be exercised in administration to patients with compromised liver or kidney function.

Inform your physician if you are pregnant or nursing. Do not take Soma with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor. Soma may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision; use caution while driving or operating hazardous machinery. If dizziness occurs, avoid sudden changes in posture. Take Soma with food to avoid stomach upset. Notify your physician if you develop trouble breathing, unexplained fever, severe weakness, vision changes, swelling, or skin rash. Withdrawal symptoms may occur if therapy is suddenly stopped in a patient on long-term or high-dose therapy.

Contraindications to Soma

Acute intermittent porphyria as well as allergic or idiosyncratic reactions to Soma (carisoprodol) or related compounds, such as meprobamate, mebutamate, or tybamate.

Soma Addiction and Dependency

Soma and Alcohol Interaction

Do not take any other sedating drugs or drink alcohol while taking Soma (carisoprodol).