by Melody St. John

Created on: April 21, 2009   Last Updated: July 30, 2011

Carisoprodol is a muscle relaxant that acts in the central nervous system (CNS), and has no direct relaxing effect on the tense skeletal muscles in man. The mechanism of Carisoprodol's action in effecting relief from muscle spasm originating locally has not been clearly defined, although experts believe it to be associated with the drug's sedative properties.

As a centrally acting muscle relaxant, carisoprodol's effect takes a rapid onset and lasts for about four to six hours. This drug undergoes metabolism in the liver via the cytochrome P450 enzyme pathway; and is eliminated by the kidneys.

Like many CNS drugs, Carisoprodol does not come without side effects. So while taking this drug, be sure to watch out for any of the following side effects which are categorized according to seriousness.

Less serious side effects of carisoprodol that you may experience while on this drug include:

Sleepiness, dizziness, tremor; Headache; Blurring of vision; Feeling of depression;
Irritability; Sleep problems or insomnia; Hiccups; and Gastrointestinal problems, including nausea, vomiting, and stomach upset

Although these effects are considered less serious, you still have to be alert for any signs of heightened severity. These signs can include increasing episode frequency, prolonged duration per episode, heightening intensity level, and persistence in spite of treatment. If observed, inform your doctor right away.

However, if you experience any of the side effects mentioned below, you need to stop taking carisoprodol and seek medical help immediately, as these adverse reactions are considered to be serious. These side effects may include:

Hypersensitivity reaction (allergy) Be alert for symptoms such as skin rash (hives), difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat; Loss of sensation or paralysis; Extreme weakness or lack of muscle coordination; Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia); Postural hypotension; Lightheadedness or fainting (syncope); Burning sensation in the eyes; Loss of vision; Seizure (convulsions); Confusion and/or agitation; Fever

These serious side effects of carisoprodol need to be taken seriously as well, so always be on guard for any of these adverse reactions, and never take them for granted, as they may lead to grave or irreversible damage, or even death.

To minimize the occurrence of these side effects, be sure to do the following prior to taking carisoprodol:

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have allergies to drugs particularly

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