Soma is a prescription drug with a generic name of carisoprodol. It works in the brain to relax the skeletal muscles and block the message of pain coming from muscles. Soma is used to treat injured muscles and other painful muscular conditions. It is available as a 350 mg oral tablet that is usually taken three to four times a day for three weeks or fewer. While not a controlled substance, this drug may be habit-forming and should be taken only as prescribed.
Drowsiness
Soma can cause drowsiness and sedation. This may include difficulty controlling muscle movements and dizziness. In severe cases, reversible confusion can occur. Some patients experience severe weakness. According to the "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide," you should not drive or perform activities that require attention if you experience these side effects of Soma.
Fast Heart Rate
You may notice that you have a fast heart rate. Also, your blood pressure could drop when you stand up, causing you to feel lightheaded. Drugs.com states that fainting can occur from taking this medication.
Agitation
Soma can have the side effects of agitation and irritability. It makes some people feel depressed, while others develop a mild hand tremor. Headaches can occur, and the patient can have trouble sleeping.
Nausea
You may feel nauseated when taking Soma. This can lead to vomiting. Other epigastric distress may be experienced, and some patients hiccup often from taking this medication. Taking the medication with food may help reduce gastrointestinal symptoms.
Fever
Patients may experience fever from taking Soma. The face may become flushed, which may or may not accompany the fever.
Vision Problems
Blurry vision may be noticed when taking Soma. This usually improves when the medicine wears off. Take care to avoid injury while not seeing properly.
Paralysis
Paralysis of a part of the body can occur, a situation in which you cannot move or feel touch in that area.
Seizures
Soma can cause seizures, which can be life-threatening. These are also called convulsions and are manifested by continuous, uncontrollable body movements for a period of time.
Hypersensitivity Reaction
A hypersensitivity or allergic reaction can occur, and the "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide" states that this reaction is most common when taking one of the first four doses of Soma. Effects of this reaction can include rash, burning eyes, difficulty breathing, weakness, low blood pressure, dizziness, fever and swelling of the throat, mouth, tongue or face. This condition may worsen into life-threatening shock or inability to breathe.
References
- "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide"; Amy M. Karch; 2010
- Drugs.com: Soma
- MedlinePlus: Carisoprodol
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