by Jennifer Kirkman

Created on: June 24, 2010

Carisoprodol is a drug in the skeletal muscle relaxant category. Doctors generally would prescribe it to treat types of muscle pains.

One thing that is most important to understand about Carisoprodol is that it can be addictive. Doctors usually won't prescribe this drug for any longer than is necessary for that very reason since over the long term, the person may experience some unpleasant withdrawl symptoms after trying to come off from this medication. This is why you must follow your doctor's advice when you stop taking this medication since it must be done in the way your doctor directs. It is also important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing since Carisoprodol may pass over into the unborn child and cause birth injury. Doctors may not prescribe Carisoprodol to anyone that has had a previous history of drug abuse problems, any liver or kidney disease, and to those people that have seizure disorders. It is important that when you are taking this medication, that you not allow anyone else to take it in order to relieve their muscle pains since the addiction habit is so easy to form.

Your doctor should also know of any other medicines you are taking which are over the counter including supplements. Many over the counter drugs can cause some unwanted side effects with Carisoprodol.

You need to take Carisoprodol just as recommended on the medicine label and do not double up the medication should you miss a scheduled dosage. You must also refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages with Carisoprodol since drinking alcoholic drinks may compound the possible side effects. Care and caution must also be taken when doing any hazardous tasks such as driving a car due to the drowsy effect this pill may have. The usual dosage of Carisoprodol is anywhere between 350 milligrams 3 or 4 times daily.

Carisoprodol may also have a number of different side effects. In rare cases, some people may have an allergic reaction to Carisoprodol in which there are hives, trouble breathing, lip and tongue swelling. This calls for immediate medical treatment. Other than the most common side effect being drowsiness, there may be headaches, insomnia, feeling faint, possible convulsions, vision disturbances, rapid heartbeats, and feelings of paralysis. If these side effects should occur while you are taking Carisoprodol, then it is very important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Article source:

The Pill Book Revised 10th Edition
 

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