Understanding Carisoprodol (Soma)

Precautions

As mentioned, this medication is only for short periods. Patients must not take it for longer than three weeks! This makes it unsuitable for chronic pain. Taking this medication for longer increases the risk of dependence and withdrawal when patients stop it. When patients stop taking carisoprodol, they must do so under the supervision of their doctor. This way, their doctor helps them manage withdrawal symptoms! It is also vital for patients to follow their doctor's dosage instructions. Specifically, this means how much of this medication to take and when. Following these instructions reduces the risk of side effects, dependence, and withdrawal! Skipping a dose is not recommended, nor is taking extra ones.

In addition, patients must avoid drinking alcohol when they are on this medication. It interacts with alcohol because both relax the muscles and slow the patient's nervous system down! This medication is not recommended for pregnant women, since the effect on the baby has not been proven safe. Additionally, this medication has been found in high concentrations in breast milk. Thus, nursing mothers must not take it either!

Keep reading to learn about the medication interactions next.