Carisoprodol in brief

The good news

Most musculoskeletal conditions last only for relatively short periods of time. They are sources of acute pain and the underlying problem heals. Used over a period of two or three weeks, Carisoprodol gives you relief from pain and helps you rest while you recover.

It is possible to use Carisoprodol for chronic conditions like arthritis. But, as is always the case when dealing with prescription drugs, you should get a full check-up from your primary healthcare provider. Listen carefully to his or her advice on dosage and the length of time it is appropriate to take this drug. All the results from clinical trials show Carisoprodol to be effective and, more importantly, to deliver results with few side effects. Nevertheless, get advice before taking this drug.

Things to take into account

Carisoprodol is a sedative. This means it is designed to make most people feel quite drowsy when taking medium to high dosages. So if your work requires you to drive or operate potentially dangerous machinery, you should not drive or go to work until you have built up some tolerance for this drug.

More importantly, you should not combine this drug with any other drug or substance that also acts as a sedative. There is a long list starting with alcohol, sleeping pills, tranquillisers, antidepressants, antihistamines and cold remedies, opioid painkillers, and others. Mixing two or more together amplifies the result and you are likely to lose consciousness. If it produces an overdose, this can be very dangerous.

Finally, people who take Carisoprodol over longer periods of time can become dependent. If you have ever had difficulties with addiction, it is better not to start taking Carisoprodol.

Is this drug suitable for everyone?

Most doctors prefer not to prescribe this drug for children and teens. In fact there is no evidence it causes problems, but caution is always advisable. In general, you should not give this drug to anyone under the age of twelve. Seniors have no problems and there do not seem to be any difficulties if you take this drug while pregnant, but it is always wise to ask your doctor for specific guidance on this. The only groups of people who need more care are those with kidney or liver disease, or those with epilepsy or any other seizure disorder.

What are the main drug interactions?

You should always tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs and over-the-counter medications you are taking. This is the only way to ensure you will be safe in adding a new drug. In general, avoid mixing any of the benzodiazepines, tricyclic antidepressants and the opioids.

What are the side effects?

The majority of people use Carisoprodol without any problems. The mild difficulties come with drowsiness, some slight dizziness and headaches. More seriously, you should seek help if you find yourself with an allergic reaction, or lose muscle co-ordination, find it difficult to breathe, have a seizure or feel your grip on reality slipping.