What Is Carisoprodol (Soma)?

Carisoprodol is a muscle relaxant that may be sold as Soma. It seems to be a controlled medication that may only be prescribed for individuals to take for short periods. This may be for up to three weeks. Research appears to show that serious side effects occur when individuals take it for longer. These side effects may include significant withdrawal.

This medication may help patients experience muscle pain relief. These seem to be common muscle relaxant pills for muscle injuries as well. Carisoprodol may also be taken as a sprained ankle treatment. Some doctors may prescribe it as short-term relief for back spasms. Patients need to understand how this medication should work before they try taking it as pain treatment or another use.

How It Should Work

Carisoprodol appears to be an oral medication that relaxes the muscles. It may be a habit-forming medication, which may be why it is a controlled substance. Unfortunately, it does not seem as if researchers have concluded why this medication works. The current theory is that this medication may stop nerves from sending the brain pain signals. Even if the nerves are in pain, they do not appear able to let the brain know with this medication. The signals seem to be lost before they reach the brain. However, this may not be the only theory. Some researchers claim that this medication may change how pain-controlling nerves located in the brain work.

Continue reading to learn about the possible uses for this medication next.