Description

Carisoprodol 350 mg, commonly known by the brand name Soma, is a prescription skeletal muscle relaxant used in adults as part of a short-term treatment plan for acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions. It is generally used together with measures such as rest and physical therapy.

The official information provides current information about Soma’s ingredients, indications, warnings, dosage, and contraindications.

Active Ingredient

The active ingredient is carisoprodol 350 mg. Carisoprodol belongs to the skeletal muscle relaxant class and acts on the central nervous system. Its precise mechanism for producing muscle-relaxing effects has not been completely established.

For consumer-friendly medication information, see Carisoprodol.

What Is Carisoprodol 350 mg Used For?

Carisoprodol is indicated for relief of discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions in adults. It is intended as part of a broader treatment program that may include rest and physical therapy.

The medication is generally intended for short-term use, rather than prolonged treatment.

How Does Soma Work?

Carisoprodol acts within the central nervous system and produces muscle-relaxing and sedative effects. The exact mechanism responsible for its therapeutic effects has not been fully determined.

Because it can cause drowsiness and impaired alertness, patients should understand how the medicine affects them before driving or performing potentially hazardous activities.

Dosage Information

The current U.S. prescribing information recommends 250 mg or 350 mg three times daily and at bedtime, with treatment generally limited to two or three weeks.

The appropriate dosage should always be determined by the prescribing healthcare professional. Do not increase the dose, change the frequency, or extend treatment without medical advice.

Common Side Effects

Potential adverse effects associated with carisoprodol include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Reduced alertness

If severe or unusual symptoms occur, contact a healthcare professional promptly. Emergency medical assistance should be sought for serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or seizures.

Important Safety Information

Carisoprodol can cause sedation and impairment of physical or mental abilities. Combining it with other substances that depress the central nervous system can increase these effects.

Alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, and other sedating medicines may increase the risk of excessive sedation and potentially dangerous respiratory depression.

The FDA’s medication safety information provides additional resources concerning prescription-drug safety.

Dependence and Misuse

Carisoprodol has recognized potential for abuse, misuse, dependence, and withdrawal. In the United States, carisoprodol is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance.

Patients should use it only as prescribed and should not share their medication with anyone else.

Drug Interactions

Before taking carisoprodol, inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and other substances you use.

Particular caution is needed when carisoprodol is combined with other central nervous system depressants because sedative effects can become stronger.

The MedlinePlus carisoprodol guide provides additional information about precautions and medication interactions.

Storage

Store carisoprodol according to the instructions on the product label. Current U.S. labeling recommends controlled room-temperature storage of approximately 20°C–25°C (68°F–77°F).

Keep prescription medicines out of the reach of children and other people for whom they were not prescribed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carisoprodol 350 mg?

Carisoprodol 350 mg is a prescription skeletal muscle relaxant used for short-term treatment of acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions in adults.

Is Soma the same as carisoprodol?

Yes. Soma is a brand name for the active ingredient carisoprodol.

How long is carisoprodol normally used?

U.S. prescribing information recommends limiting treatment to approximately two or three weeks because adequate evidence for longer-term effectiveness has not been established.

Can Carisoprodol 350 mg cause drowsiness?

Yes. Drowsiness and dizziness are recognized adverse effects. Patients should use caution with driving and activities requiring full alertness.

Is carisoprodol a controlled substance?

Yes. Carisoprodol is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance in the United States.