The Effects of Carisoprodol Use

Carisoprodol, sold under the trade names Soma and Vanadom, is a muscle relaxant that acts as a strong sedative. The drug is often prescribed clinically for the relief of muscle pain and is typically recommended for use only on a short-term basis.

Is Carisoprodol Harmful?

Carisoprodol is generally considered safe at low doses, but at higher doses or when mixed with other drugs, it can be dangerous and addictive.

Carisoprodol is often abused with other drugs because the muscle relaxant acts as an enhancer for other drugs such as opioids, additional sedatives or alcohol, and can make the “high” feeling much more potent. Drugs commonly mixed with carisoprodol include:

• Oxycodone formulations such as OxyContin and Percocet.
• Hydrocodon formulations such as Lortab and Vicodin.
• Benzodiazepines such as Xanax or Ativan.
• Alcohol.

Short-Term Effects

When prescribed by a doctor at the correct doses, carisoprodol can have short-term positive effects in the setting of painful muscle spasm or injury, including:

• Lessened feelings of pain.
• Muscle relaxation.
• Increased range of motion.
• Mild sedation.

However, the drug does have its fair share of negative side effects that present themselves when carisoprodol is taken in high doses or when it is mixed with other drugs. Continue reading to learn more.

Side Effects

There are negative effects of carisoprodol that cannot be ignored as they can become quite dangerous at high dosages. These negative side effects include:

• Loss of muscle coordination.
• Weakness.
• Dizziness.
• Fainting.
• Seizures.
• Double vision.
• Poor judgment.
• Confusion.
• Headache.
• Depression.
• Tremors.
• Increased heart rate.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.

NOTE: Effects are more severe and pronounced when carisoprodol is combined with other substances. Mixing carisoprodol with illicit drugs and/or alcohol is known to put users at higher risk for seizures and even death.

Long-term Effects of Abuse

The long-term effects of carisoprodol abuse revolve around the addiction and dependency of the drug.

Unfortunately, there are have not been many studies on the long-term effects of carisoprodol abuse. For example, the FDA warns that there has not been enough research to determine whether:

• The drug is a carcinogen (cancer-causing substance).
• The drug harms a woman’s fertility.

Also, since carisoprodol is often used with other opiates, health officials often refer to the long-term effects of those drugs when looking at the long-term effects of carisoprodol use. Long-term opiate use raises the risk of overdose and can permanently impair the brain’s ability to create an appropriate level of dopamine, which is necessary to naturally “feel good” and avoid depression.

Lifestyle Changes

Long-term abuse of any drug can also lead to lifestyle and personality changes in the addict, which may include:

• Changes in personal priorities.
• Declining school or work performance.
• Withdrawal from social activities.
• Interpersonal/relationship problems.
• Compulsions to seek out and use the drug.
• Financial issues.

Carisoprodol Dependence

Carisoprodol dependence comes with a number of physical risks. Users that have become dependent or reliant on the drug often have a greater tolerance to its effects. So in order to get the same “high,” tolerant users must take higher doses of carisoprodol, which is dangerous.

If an individual is suspected of becoming addicted to carisoprodol or one of the drugs it is commonly used with, the potential health risks are too great to ignore. Plans should be made for that person to:

• Seek care from an addiction specialist.
• OR
• Enter treatment at a recovery center or rehab facility.

Additionally, should any of the grave, potentially life-threatening side effects be experienced, the individual should be immediately taken to an emergency room or qualified medical facility.

Withdrawal Treatment

Carisoprodol Detox

Carisoprodol withdrawal can come with symptoms such as:

• Lack of concentration.
• Insomnia.
• Rebound muscle pain, aches and stiffness.
• Ataxia or loss of muscular coordination.
• Shaky limbs or tremulousness.
• Gastrointestinal disturbance.
• Hallucinations and delusions (less common).
• Strong cravings for the drug.

These symptoms can make the withdrawal and recovery processes difficult; however, it’s important to remember that, despite the struggle, recovery is entirely possible. The drug often changes the brain’s chemistry, and a brain going through withdrawal often needs time in order to alter its chemicals back to a more natural state.

Carisoprodol Addiction Treatment

Options for treatment include inpatient rehab, outpatient services, and 12-step programs, among others. Inpatient treatment is a great option for those who need focused and continuous care to stop using. Patients typically stay in rehab for a period of 30-90 days, or longer depending on their needs.

Some people, however, are unable to leave work or other responsibilities for an extended period of time and may find outpatient treatment to be a better option. However, when considering the benefits and drawbacks, it’s important to note that recovery enables you to effectively fulfill your responsibilities, so even if you have to spend a certain amount of time in rehab, it will be worth it in potentially saving your life and letting you perform better as an employee, a spouse, a parent, etc.

If you or a loved one is suffering from Carisoprodol addiction, there is a way to get help. Give us a call at and let us help you find the right treatment program for your personal needs so that you can get back to living a clean and sober lifestyle.