Soma, a muscle relaxant, is used with rest, physical therapy, and
other measures to relax muscles and relieve pain and discomfort caused
by strains, sprains, and other muscle injuries.
Carisoprodol
is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist
for more information.
How
should Soma be used?
Soma comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken three
times daily and at bedtime. It may be taken with or without food.
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask
your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Take Carisoprodol exactly as directed. Do
not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed
by your doctor.
-- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Soma, meprobamate
(Equanil, Meprospan, Miltown, Neuramate), or any other drugs.
-- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription
medications you are taking, especially medications for allergies,
coughs, or colds; muscle relaxants; sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers;
and vitamins.
-- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease.
-- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant,
or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Carisoprodol,
call your doctor.
-- you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive
a car or operate machinery until you know how Carisoprodol affects
you.
-- remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by Carisoprodol.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is
almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your
regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for
a missed one.
What
side effects can Soma cause?
Although side effects from Soma are not common, they can occur. Tell
your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
If you experience any of the following symptoms,
call your doctor immediately:
- difficulty breathing
- fever
- weakness
- burning in the eyes
What storage conditions are needed for Soma?
Keep Carisoprodol
in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of
children. Store it at room temperature and away from moisture and
heat (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated
or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal
of your medication.
What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask
your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.