Carisoprodol Abuse
Carisoprodol, also known by the brand name Soma, is a prescription medication used to treat muscle spasms and severe muscle pain. However, due to its psychoactive (sedative and anxolytic/anti-anxiety/relaxant) effects, its abuse is becoming a more prominent problem.
The effects of carisoprodol are relatively short in duration. Users may quickly find themselves taking more and more to prolong the pleasurable sensation it elicits, quickly leading them towards dependence and addiction.
Carisoprodol Abuse: Key Facts
Carisoprodol abuse can have serious consequences. Addiction to this drug can severely diminish quality of life and the health and wellness of the person suffering from it.
It was once considered to have a low addiction rating, but more evidence is emerging proving that it is more addictive than originally thought.
In fact, a study from the National Institutes of Health showed that withdrawal symptoms are relatively severe in the former user (especially if the drug was taken in large doses). These symptoms may include:- Abdominal discomfort.
- Queasiness.
- Tremors.
- Muscle spasms.
- Hallucinations.
- Anxiety.
- Inability to sleep without using the drug.
Signs and Symptoms of Abuse
If you believe that someone you care about may be addicted to carisoprodol, check for these telltale indications of abuse:
- Poor physical coordination, loss of balance.
- Flushing of the skin.
- Agitation when not taking the drug.
- Euphoric or drunk demeanor.
Effects of Abuse
People who are struggling with a carisoprodol addiction may find themselves experiencing a range of unpleasant effects, some of which occur immediately and others after continued use. Effects can include:
- Impairment of physical or mental capabilities.
- Dizziness.
- Nausea/vomiting.
- Increase in heart rate.
- Tremors.
- Fainting.
- Seizures (typically associated with drug combinations).
- Rebound anxiety and/or insomnia.
Abuse Treatment
If you or someone you love is wrestling with carisoprodol addiction, there are treatment options available that can help with overcoming the hurdle of dependency.
The following are all helpful methods to overcoming substance abuse:
- Attending 12-step meetings.
- Getting treatment at a medical rehabilitation center.
- Participating in group or individual psychotherapy.
Most often, someone who is addicted to a prescription drug like carisoprodol should first get care at a treatment center. If you have a prolonged, severe addiction to the drug, treatment at a residential rehabilitation center will likely be best.
A residential rehab center helps the patient through the detox process, during which the patient is weaned off his physical dependency on the drug. These centers also provide in-depth, 24/7 care for the duration of the patient’s stay, which is generally up to 3 months (but can be longer for especially serious cases).
Teen Carisoprodol Abuse
Teen carisoprodol abuse is becoming increasingly common and is worrisome because it is so commonly abused with other prescription and/or street drugs.
Many teens feel that misusing prescription medication is safer than using street drugs, although this is often not at all the case, especially when several drugs are mixed.
Carisoprodol abuse can have serious negative effects, and many teens do not realize the full extent of the danger.
Additional Resources
To read more about carisoprodol abuse, see the following articles:
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