by D. Vogt

Created on: June 12, 2010

Carisoprodol is a muscle relaxant. It was first developed as an antiseptic during the late 1950s, when it was developed by Wallace Laboratories, but was then found to have muscle relaxant properties and was trademarketed and marketed as Soma. The name was possibly borrowed from an ancient Indian substance, or from a fictional drug in the writings of Aldous Huxley. It is prescribed to relax muscles and relieve pain following injuries such as sprains. Note that carisoprodol does not necessarily contribute to rapid healing alone; your doctor may set out a broader treatment course including exercise or rest, and possibly physiotherapy.

Note that carisoprodol is the generic name for a drug which is marketed as Soma in the United States, and as Sanoma and Carisoma in Britain.

There are several potential side effects of carisoprodol. According to the National Institutes of Health, some mild side effects of carisoprodol include drowsiness, dizziness, clumsiness, headache, a fast heartbeat (tachycardia), an upset stomach or vomiting, and a skin rash. Normally these side effects of carisoprodol are minor, but if you find that they are particularly serious or persistent, you should notify your doctor in case your treatment needs to be adjusted or discontinued.

In addition, several more serious side effects of carisoprodol indicate a potentially more serious reaction to the medication. If you experience a fever, feel a sensation of weakness, or your eyes begin to burn, you should contact your doctor immediately. In addition, if you experience difficulty breathing, this is a potentially serious condition which requires urgent medical attention.

It is possible, albeit unlikely, to experience an allergic reaction to carisoprodol. Classic symptoms of an allergic reaction to medication include itching and skin rashes. However, severe allergic reactions can include dizziness, shock, weakness, and a burning sensation in the eyes (as mentioned above). An allergic reaction to carisoprodol, like any other serious side effect of carisoprodol, needs immediate attention from medical professionals.

Carisoprodol can be addictive and, because of this and reported serious side effects, its continued use has been controversial. Sweden and Norway have both restricted the sale of carisoprodol, and it is a controlled substance in several American states (but not federally).

The above information about the side effects of carisoprodol has been compiled from publicly available sources as a general guide. However, you should always discuss medications with your doctor and pharmacist, who can give you professional medical advice, and follow their instructions precisely.

- Sources and Further Reading -

National Institutes of Health. "Carisoprodol: MedlinePlus Drug Information."

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