Carisoprodol (Soma) Addiction, Side Effects & Treatment

Carisoprodol, also known by the brand name Soma, is a prescription skeletal muscle relaxant.
It is typically prescribed to relieve pain caused by muscle injuries like strains and sprains. This drug comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth, often several times a day when treating an injury. This medication is typically combined with physical therapy and other treatments in order to treat muscle pain. However, some people become addicted to carisoprodol and use it other than how it is intended.

Table of Contents:

• Effects of Soma (Carisoprodol)
• Take Our Substance Abuse Self-Assessment
• Carisoprodol Overdose
• Soma Addiction
• Signs of Soma Addiction
• Treating Carisoprodol Addiction
• Addiction Recovery

Side Effects of Soma (Carisoprodol)

Carisoprodol causes muscle relaxation, sedation, and decreased anxiety. However, muscle relaxants like carisoprodol can also cause various unintended side effects. These side effects can become more severe, and even dangerous, when the drug is misused. The National Library of Medicine lists the following side effects of carisoprodol:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Increased clumsiness
• Headache
• Increased heart rate
• Upset stomach and vomiting
• Skin rash

Some side effects, like difficulty breathing, fever, weakness, or burning in the eyes, can indicate a severe reaction to carisoprodol and require immediate medical attention. The effects of carisoprodol generally set in within 30 minutes of taking the drug and generally last 4-6 hours.

Abusing carisoprodol can have many adverse effects on the body. The Drug Enforcement Administration lists the following physical effects:

• Agitation
• Irritability
• Depression
• Temporary loss of consciousness
• Tachycardia
• Hypotension
• Extreme weakness
• Cervical spine injury
• Difficulty speaking
• Temporary loss of vision
• Double vision
• Dilated pupils
• Euphoria
• Confusion
• Disorientation

These effects are typically short-lasting. However, continued abuse of the drug can cause permanent damage to the body. The heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and brain can all be adversely affected by abuse of prescription medications.

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Carisoprodol Overdose

An overdose of carisoprodol can be very dangerous and requires immediate medical attention. The New York Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS) lists the following symptoms of carisoprodol overdose:

• Chills
• Palpitations
• Vomiting
• Extreme sedation
• Difficulty breathing
• Shock
• Coma

Severe overdose on carisoprodol can lead to death or permanent brain damage. Risk of overdose is much higher if the drug is overused or used other than how it is prescribed. Repeated abuse of this drug can lead to an unintentional overdose.

Overdose risk is also increased among individuals who have been through detox. Repeated use of carisoprodol can lead to increased tolerance, meaning that a higher dose of the drug is needed in order to achieve effects once felt after a smaller dose. Tolerance decreases quickly after use of the drug is lessened or stopped, so a dose that was previously well tolerated may become too large and cause an overdose.

Soma Addiction

According to Current Drug Abuse Reviews, carisoprodol causes addiction in similar ways to sedatives like benzodiazepines. This drug breaks down in the body to produce a metabolite called meprobamate, which can be addictive. People generally abuse carisoprodol for its relaxation and sedative effects.

Many people who become addicted to this drug were originally prescribed the medication by a doctor to treat an injury or other muscle pain. Some people who take the drug become addicted. Chances of becoming addicted to prescription medications increases if they are misused; if individuals attempt to self-treat muscle pain by taking larger doses than prescribed, or using the drug in ways other than how it is intended, they are more likely to become addicted to the substance.

Other people may first acquire carisoprodol through illicit means. Some people take this medication with other illicit substances in order to augment or enhance the effects. Because carisoprodol is relatively easy to acquire, abuse of this substance has increased in recent years, and physical dependence on the drug has become more common. OASAS reports that carisoprodol abuse has climbed in recent years, and in 2007, the rates of abuse were similar to rates of abuse for controlled substances like Klonopin and Librium.

Symptoms of Soma Withdrawal

Many people who are addicted to carisoprodol are physically dependent on this medication. Physical dependence occurs when the body becomes accustomed to a certain drug and then requires the drug in order to function normally. Once physical dependence occurs, the individual will experience a withdrawal syndrome whenever lessening or stopping use of the substance. Current Drug Abuse Reviews lists the following symptoms of carisoprodol withdrawal:

• Insomnia
• Vomiting
• Tremors
• Muscle twitching
• Anxiety
• Ataxia (loss of control over body movements)
• Hallucinations
• Delusions

Because withdrawal from carisoprodol can cause severe symptoms, this drug should always be slowly tapered rather than stopped suddenly.

Addiction to prescription medications like carisoprodol can affect every area of an individual’s life. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that addiction is an enduring, relapsing brain disease that leads to drug-seeking and using behaviors despite negative consequences. Those suffering from addiction will find that much of their time is spent thinking about, acquiring, and using the addictive substance. They may spend less time with friends and family and stop participating in things they once enjoyed. Addiction can quickly lead to the deterioration of overall quality of life.

Sometimes, individuals may not realize they have a problem with drugs. Some symptoms of prescription drug abuse and addiction can be observed by friends and family, including the following:

• Stealing or forging prescriptions
• Taking higher doses than prescribed
• Unexplained mood swings or excessive hostility
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Appearing to have much more or less energy than usual
• Claiming to have lost prescriptions, so new ones must be written
• Seeking prescriptions from multiple doctors

Drug use that interferes with daily functioning is a sign that you may be suffering from an addiction. Use of carisoprodol should be carefully monitored to prevent physical dependence and abuse. If you’re concerned about your carisoprodol use, talk to the prescribing physician. Your physician may want to screen you for physical dependence and other issues. If an addiction is present, a referral to a mental health professional or treatment center may be given.

Treating Carisoprodol Addiction

If your physician believes you have become addicted to carisoprodol and you wish to stop using the drug, your doctor will instruct you to begin tapering your dosage. Tapering off carisoprodol, rather than stopping use suddenly, helps to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms. Completely tapering off carisoprodol usually takes at least a week.

Addiction involves more than physical dependence on a drug. Some people may experience withdrawal from carisoprodol but are not addicted to it, and they will not compulsively seek out and use the substance. Others, however, develop an addiction, which requires treatment beyond detox. Your physician can refer you to a therapist or addiction specialist.

There are currently no FDA-approved medications to treat addiction to muscle relaxants like carisoprodol. Talk therapy is the main method of treatment for this type of addiction. Individual and group therapy, as well as self-help and support groups, can all be useful in recovering from carisoprodol addiction.

Many different methods of behavioral therapy have been shown to be effective in treating addiction. Therapy, regardless of the particular methods used, is intended to provide clients with support and ways of coping that will help them avoid future drug use.

Addiction Recovery

Carisoprodol can be an effective medication in the treatment of various injuries and diseases; however, it does have abuse potential. Some people who begin using this medication for legitimate purposes can become physically dependent on the drug and may develop an addiction.

Addiction to prescription medications is a common problem, but treatment works. Many options are available for addiction treatment. The most effective treatment plans are tailored to meet individual needs; what works for one person may not work for another. Therapy offered through residential or outpatient programs, combined with group therapy and support groups, can restore individuals to balanced and happy lives.

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Last Updated on Sep 9, 2022

Soma Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

Carisoprodol is used short-term to treat muscle pain and discomfort. It is usually used along with rest, physical therapy, and other treatments. It works by helping to relax the muscles.

How to use Soma

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. This medication should only be used short-term (for 3 weeks or less) unless directed by your doctor.

If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as stomach cramps, trouble sleeping, headache, nausea). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used carisoprodol for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal.

Though it helps many people, this medication may sometimes cause addiction. This risk may be higher if you have a substance use disorder (such as overuse of or addiction to drugs/alcohol). Take this medication exactly as prescribed to lower the risk of addiction. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts after 2 to 3 weeks or if it gets worse.

Side Effects

Dizziness, drowsiness, or headache may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: confusion.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking carisoprodol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to meprobamate, tybamate, or mebutamate; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: a certain blood disorder (acute intermittent porphyria), kidney disease, liver disease, seizure, personal or family history of a substance use disorder (such as overuse of or addiction to drugs/alcohol).

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially drowsiness, or confusion. These side effects can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), other muscle relaxants (such as cyclobenzaprine, methocarbamol), or antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine).

Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

Does Soma interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness/dizziness, seizures, slow/shallow breathing, mental/mood changes (such as confusion, hallucinations), inability to move your legs/arms, shaky/unsteady movement, vision changes (such as blurred vision).

Do not share this medication with others. Sharing it is against the law.

This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another condition unless your doctor directs you to do so. A different medication may be necessary in that case.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Soma 350 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: SOMA 37 WALLACE 2001

This medicine is a white, round, tablet imprinted with “SOMA” and “37 WALLACE 2001”.

Soma 250 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: SOMA 250

This medicine is a white, round, tablet imprinted with “SOMA” and “37 WALLACE 2001”.

Soma 350 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: SOMA 350

This medicine is a white, round, tablet imprinted with “SOMA” and “37 WALLACE 2001”.

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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Soma Compound Tablet English – Product

Soma Compound Tablet English – Product – TabletWise.com

About Us

• About Us
• Privacy Policy 008
• Terms of use

• Overview
• Benefits
• Side effects
• Precautions

9Soma Compound Tablet for musculoskeletal apparatus and other conditions.

Soma Compound Tablet contains Aspirin and Carisoprodol as active ingredients. Available in tablet form.

Detailed information regarding the use, composition, dosage, side effects of Soma Compound Tablet as well as user reviews are provided below:

Benefits the following diseases, conditions and symptoms:

• Fever
• Pain
• Rheumatic fever
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Pericarditis
• Kawasaki disease
• Heart attack
• Risk of stroke
• Pain and discomfort due to the musculoskeletal system

Learn more: Benefits 900 68

Side effects

The following is a list of possible side effects that may be caused by elements that are part of Soma Compound Tablets / Soma Compound Tablet. This list is not final. These side effects have been recorded previously, but are not always recorded when using the drug. Some of these side effects may be extremely rare, but have incredibly severe consequences. If you notice any side effects, contact your doctor immediately. Especially in the case of observing side effects for a long time.

• Angioedema
• Choking
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dyspepsia
• Gastric erosion 9 0008
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Hepatitis
• Rhinitis
• Bleeding
• Hepatomegaly
• Epigastric discomfort
• Urticaria
• Gastric ulceration
• Cerebral hemorrhage
• Respiratory alkalosis
• Ringing in the ears
• Airway obstruction
• Drowsiness
• Headache

If you experience side effects not listed above, contact your healthcare provider for advice. In addition, you can report side effects to your local Food and Drug Administration.

Precautions

Before you start taking this drug, tell your doctor about any medications you are taking, nutritional supplements (such as vitamins, natural supplements, etc. ), allergies, existing medical conditions, and current health conditions (such as pregnancy, upcoming surgery, and etc.). The side effects of the drug may be more pronounced depending on the state of your body. Take this medicine as directed by your doctor, or follow the directions for use that come with your medicine. The dosage of the drug depends on your condition. Tell your doctor if there is no change or if your condition worsens. Important points to discuss with your healthcare provider are listed below.

• Kidney disease
• Heart disease
• It is important that you continue to take this medcation even if you feel well
• High blood pressure
• Stomach bleeding
• Avoid alcohol and others sedatives
• Heartburn
• May cause dependence
• May cause sedation
• Drug dependence potential

If you use other drugs or over the counter products at the same time, the effects of Soma Compound Tablet may change. Tell your healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you use. Your doctor will be able to make the right plan for taking the drug, which will avoid negative interactions. Soma Compound Tablet may interact with the following drugs and products:

• Alcohol
• Allopurinol
• Amitrityline
• Amlodipine
• Atorvastatin
• Barbiturates
• Benzodiazepines 90 008
• CYP2C19 inhibitors and inducers
• Cyanocobalamin
• Hydrochlorothiazide

Hypersensitivity to Soma Compound Tablet is contraindication. In addition, Soma Compound Tablet should not be used if you have the following conditions:

• Kidney disease
• Children and adolescents to control cold or flu symptoms
• Hypersensitivity to carbamates
• Reye’s syndrome
• hyperuricemia
• dengue fever 90 008
• acute intermittent porphyria
• gout

Composition and active ingredients

Soma Compound Tablet is composed of the following active ingredients (salts)

• Aspirin
• Carisoprodol

Please note that this preparation is available in different strengths for each of the active ingredients listed above.

Packing Options and Strengths

Soma Compound Tablet is available in the following packages and strengths

Available packs of Soma Compound Tablet: 325MG, 200MG

FAQ

• Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery while using this product?

  If you experience drowsiness, dizziness, hypotension or a headache as side-effects when using Soma Compound Tablet medicine then it may not be safe to drive a vehicle or operate heavy machinery. You should stop driving if taking this medicine makes you drowsy, dizzy, or hypotensive. Doctors recommend that you stop drinking alcohol with such drugs, because. alcohol greatly increases the side effects and drowsiness. Please check for these effects on your body when using Soma Compound Tablet. Be sure to consult your doctor for advice based on the characteristics of your body and general health.

• Is this drug (product) addictive or addictive?

  Most drugs are not habit-forming or addictive. In most cases, the state classifies drugs that can be addictive as controlled dispensing drugs. For example, schedule H or X in India and schedule II-V in the USA. Please check the information on the drug packaging to make sure that this drug is not in the controlled category. Also, do not self-medicate or accustom your body to medications without consulting your doctor.

• Can I stop using this product immediately or do I need to slowly stop using it?

  Some medications need to be stopped gradually due to a rebound effect. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider for advice based on your body, general health, and other medications you may be taking.

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Robuxin vs Soma: Differences, Similarities & What’s Best for You – Drug Vs. Friend

Home >> Drug Vs. Friend >> Robuxin vs Soma: Differences, Similarities & Which is Best for You

Drug Vs. Friend

Drug Overview and Key Differences | Conditions of treatment | Efficiency | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug Interactions | Warnings | Frequently Asked Questions

Have you ever thrown back or experienced terrible back pain or spasms? Or have you ever taken a wrong turn that caused excruciating pain in your neck? If you have ever had any of these problems, your doctor may have prescribed a muscle relaxant for you. Robaxin and Soma are two brand-name prescription drugs that are indicated for the treatment of muscle spasms. Both drugs are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Robaxin and Soma are classified in a group of medicines called skeletal muscle relaxants. It is believed that robaxin and soma act on the basis of general CNS (central nervous system) depression and sedative properties. In addition, soma is metabolized to meprobamate, which is thought to relieve anxiety and cause sedation. However, it is not known to what extent meprobamate helps relieve muscle spasms.

Because soma can be abused or addictive, it is classified as a Schedule IV Controlled Substance. Although Robaxin and Soma are muscle relaxants, they are not the same. Read on to learn more about Robaxin and Soma.

What are the main differences between Robaxin and Soma?

Robaxin (methocarbamol) and soma (carisoprodol) are skeletal muscle relaxants. Robaxin is available in the form of tablets and injections. Soma comes in the form of tablets. Both drugs can be used in adults. Soma should only be used for short periods of time, two to three weeks maximum.

Main differences between Robaxin and Soma
	Robaxin	Soma
Drug class	Skeletal muscle relaxant	Re skeletal muscle laxant
Brand / generic status	Generic; Robaxin 750 may be available under the brand name	Brand and generic
What is the common name?	Methocarbamol	Carisoprodol
What form(s) does the drug come in?	Injectable tablets	Tablets
What is the standard dosage?	Initial dose: 3 x 500 mg tablets 4 times daily OR 2 x 750 mg tablets 4 times daily. Maintenance dose: 2 x 500 mg tablets 4 times daily or 2 x 750 mg tablets 3 times daily.	250 mg or 350 mg 3 times a day and at bedtime for up to 2-3 weeks
How long does a typical treatment take?	Temporary	Temporary
Who usually takes this medicine?	Adults	Adults 16 to 65 years old

Conditions treated with Robaxin and Soma

Robaxin (What is Robaxin?) and Soma (What is Soma) ma?) Indicated to relieve the discomfort associated with acute painful conditions of the musculoskeletal system.

Robaxin prescribing information states that Robaxin should be used in conjunction with rest, physiotherapy, and other measures.

Soma’s prescribing information states that the medicine should not be used for more than two or three weeks.

Condition	Robaxin	Soma
Relieve the discomfort of acute painful conditions of the musculoskeletal system.	yes	yes

Are Robaxin or Soma more effective?

Recently, there is not much data comparing the effectiveness of muscle relaxants. A 2004 review of studies stated that there is good evidence that Soma (carisoprodol) is, among other things, effective compared to placebo for acute back or neck pain, and very limited or conflicting data on the effectiveness of Robaxin (methocarbamol), among other things. The researchers concluded that there was not enough data to determine the relative efficacy or safety of any of these drugs.

In fact, when considering a condition such as low back pain, the American Pain Society and the American College of Physicians published guidelines recommend Tylenol (acetaminophen) or NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil) as first-line treatment for most patients. These drugs are well tolerated and have fewer side effects. In addition, you can try other measures as advised by your doctor, such as yoga, physical therapy, massage, and/or relaxation.

A 2014 review of skeletal muscle relaxers states that if a first-line agent is not effective, a muscle relaxant may be started. Muscle relaxants can be effective in treating muscle spasms, but can have unpleasant side effects. In addition, as a controlled substance, Soma has been associated with abuse and addiction. Because of this abuse and dependence potential, patients with a substance use disorder or a history of substance use disorder may do better with Robaxin, which is less likely to be abused.

Although muscle relaxants may be effective (compared to placebo) for short-term relief, there is a 50% risk of side effects. These side effects include headaches, blurred vision, and possible addiction. The study authors also note that there are no studies comparing muscle relaxants with first-line drugs such as Tylenol or NSAIDs. Therefore, if a muscle relaxant is needed, individual factors should be considered, including symptoms, previous medications, potential side effects, and other medical conditions. Also, both drugs are on the Beer List of drugs that may not be suitable for adults over 65 years of age. They are not well tolerated by the elderly due to their side effects, sedation, and increased risk of falls and fractures.

The most effective medication can be determined by your healthcare provider based on your symptoms, medical conditions and medical history, as well as any medications you are taking that may interact with Robaxin or Soma.

Coverage and Cost Comparison of Robaxin and Soma

Robaxin and Soma are covered by most insurances and generic Medicare prescription plans.

The cost of a standard prescription for generic Robaxin (60 tablets of 750 mg) is about $25. Using the free SingleCare card can bring the price down to under $15.

The generic prescription drug Soma (60 350mg tablets) is about $36. With a SingleCare Coupon, you can get generic Soma for just $14.

Contact your insurance company for the latest information about Robuxin or Soma coverage.

90 332

	Robaxin	Soma
Usually covered by insurance?	Yes (general)	Yes (general)
Usually covered by Medicare Part D?	Yes (general)	Yes (general)
Quantity mg
Typical Medicare copay	$0-37	0–7 dollars
SingleCare Cost	$15+	$14+

Get a SingleCare Discount Card

General side effects of Robaxin vs. Soma

Side effects of both Robaxin and Somas include drowsiness, dizziness, and headache. Information about the appointment of Robaksin does not indicate the percentage of occurrence.

Other side effects of robaxin may include nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, an allergic reaction, confusion, seizures, and incoordination.

Other side effects of Soma may include redness, tremors, agitation, irritability, nausea, vomiting, and seizures.

This is not a complete list of side effects. Other serious side effects may also occur. Check with your healthcare provider for a complete list of side effects.

9033 Side effect

	Robaxin	Soma
Applicable?	Frequency	Applicable?	Frequency
Drowsiness	yes	% not reported	yes	13-17%
Dizziness	yes	% not reported	yes	7-8%
Headache	yes	% not reported	yes	3-5%

Source: DailyMed (Robaxin), DailyMed (Soma)

035

Robaxin or Soma should not be combined with alcohol. When taking Robaxin or Soma, medications that cause central nervous system depression, such as opioids such as Percocet, benzodiazepines such as Valium, and antidepressants, should be avoided whenever possible. Additive effects can occur with both CNS depression (causing deep sedation and impairment) and respiratory depression (causing slow and/or labored breathing, and can be life-threatening). However, if a combination of interacting drugs cannot be avoided, the lowest dose of each drug should be used for the shortest possible time and the patient should be closely monitored.

Other drug interactions may occur. Consult your healthcare professional for a complete list of drug interactions. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including prescription, over-the-counter, and vitamins.

9 0339 yes

90 419

Drug	Drug class	Robaxin	Soma 900 68
Alcohol	Alcohol	yes	yes
Pentobarbital Phenobarbital	Barbiturates	yes	yes
Alprazolam Clonazepam Diazepam Lorazepam Meprobamate Temazepam	Benzodiazepines	yes	yes
Esopiclone Zaleplon Zolpidem	Calming sleeping pills	yes	yes
Codeine Fentanyl Hydrocodone Hydromorphone Methadone Morphine Oxycodone Tramadol	Opioids	yes
Cetirizine Diphenhydramine	Antihistamines	yes	yes
Citalopram Escitalopram Fluoxetine Fluvoxamine Paroxetine Sertraline	SSRI antidepressants	yes	yes
desvenlafaxine duloxetine venlafaxine	yes
Amitriptyline Desipramine Imipramine Nortriptyline	Tricyclic antidepressants	yes	yes

Robaxin and Soma Warnings

• Before using Robaxin or Soma, tell your doctor about any medical conditions (such as liver or kidney problems) you have and any medications you are taking.
• Do not combine Robaxin or Soma with alcohol or drugs that cause CNS depression (see more information in the drug interactions section above).
• Robaxin or Soma may cause drowsiness or dizziness, which may impair your ability to drive or use machines. Do not drive or operate machinery until you are sure that Robuxin or Soma does not affect your alertness and reaction time.
• Do not use Robaxin or Soma if you are allergic to any of the ingredients. Do not use Soma if you are allergic to meprobamate.
• Keep out of reach of children and other places.

Additional Warnings Soma:

• Do not use Soma if you have a history of acute intermittent porphyria.
• Soma should only be used in adults aged 16 to 65 years.
• As a controlled substance, Soma has been associated with abuse, addiction, withdrawal symptoms, abuse, and criminal diversion. Soma abuse can lead to overdose, which can cause low blood pressure, seizures, CNS and respiratory depression, and death. Your healthcare provider will assess the risk of abuse before prescribing Soma and will limit the duration of treatment to a maximum of two to three weeks.
• In some cases, convulsions occurred in patients taking Soma. Most of the cases were associated with an overdose of several drugs.
• Abrupt discontinuation of Soma may cause withdrawal symptoms including insomnia, vomiting, headache, tremors, twitching, hallucinations and psychosis. See your doctor for medical advice on the best way to get rid of soma.
• Keep out of the reach of children and other places, if possible, under lock and key. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of leftover medicines.
• An overdose of Soma may lead to CNS depression. Soma overdose has resulted in death, coma, respiratory depression, low blood pressure, convulsions, hallucinations, blurred vision, euphoria, incoordination, headaches, and delirium.
• There have been no reports of fatal overdoses of Soma. These overdoses were accidental and non-accidental and occurred alone or in combination with CNS depressants, even at the recommended dosage.

Frequently Asked Questions about Robaxin vs Soma

What is Robaxin?

Robaxin is a skeletal muscle relaxant used to treat muscle spasms. It contains the ingredient methocarbamol.

What is Soma?

Soma is also used to treat muscle spasms. It relaxes muscles and contains carisoprodol.

Are Robaxin and Soma the same thing?

No. Both drugs are known as muscle relaxants, but as noted above, they have many differences. For example, they have different ingredients, dosages, and classifications of controlled substances.

Robuxin or Soma is better?

Your healthcare provider can determine if Robaxin or Soma is right for you based on your symptoms and medical conditions, as well as other medicines you are taking that could potentially interact with Robaxin or Soma. Your doctor will also evaluate your risk of abuse or addiction if you are considering Soma.

Can I use Robaxin or Soma while pregnant?

Robaxin may cause fetal abnormalities and should not be used during pregnancy. Soma does not have enough data for use during pregnancy and is not generally used during pregnancy. Please consult your healthcare professional if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can I use Robaxin or Soma with alcohol?

No. Avoid alcohol if you are taking Robaxin or Soma. Alcohol can cause additive effects with Robaxin or Soma and can cause CNS depression and disturbance, as well as respiratory depression with slow or labored breathing, and can even cause fatal overdose.

Which muscle relaxant is the same as Soma?

Carisoprodol is the common soma equivalent. Soma and carisoprodol are the same thing. Other muscle relaxants other than Robaxin and Soma that you may have heard of include: Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine), Skelaxin (metaxalone), and Zanaflex (tizanidine).

Is Robaxin available without a prescription?

No. Robaxin is available by prescription only. Muscle relaxants are not sold without a prescription. Some analgesics (pain relievers), such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen), are available without a prescription.