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Carisoprodol

Brand names: Soma

Carisoprodol is a muscle relaxant for short-term painful muscle spasms. It's a controlled substance with misuse risk.

Brand namesSoma
Type of medicineMuscle relaxant
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It's limited to 2 to 3 weeks.

What it's used for

  • Short-term painful muscle conditions

How to take it

  • Take it for no more than 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Don't stop suddenly after regular use.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
Call 911Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing, blue lips, or can't be woken up
Call 911Seizure

Warnings

  • It turns into a substance similar to sedatives and can be habit-forming.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol can dangerously slow breathing.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

This medicine is often taken only when needed. If you take it on a schedule, take a missed dose when you remember, unless it's almost time for the next one. Don't double up.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.