Soma Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Soma Used For?

Soma is the trade name for carisoprodol, a muscle relaxant that is prescribed for the treatment of muscle pain and spasms. Soma is often abused for its sedating effects on the user, and the addictive properties of this drug have recently been recognized by many in the medical profession as more significant than was originally believed.

The main metabolite in Soma is meprobamate, which is proven to have habit-forming effects similar to those of benzodiazepines.

Soma Abuse and Addiction

Many users of prescription drugs believe that drugs that are legitimately prescribed will not have effects as dangerous as those of street drugs and will, in turn, take excess amounts without the same fear.

Severe addiction often begins with a legitimate medical issue that turns into dependency as the body develops a tolerance to a drug and requires larger doses to feel the same effects. Soma is no exception.

Whereas Soma was originally thought to have low potential for abuse and addiction, recent evidence shows that it is habit-forming, especially when taken in combination with other drugs. Note that:

Soma produces sedative, euphoric effects that are often sought after by addicts.
Soma intensifies the effects of other drugs like Xanax. This combination is severely addictive and potentially dangerous.

Signs and Symptoms of Soma Misuse

When taken in large doses, Soma use can produce a number of telling side effects. Signs and symptoms of Soma abuse include:

Impaired physical coordination.
Flushed skin.
Euphoria/feeling or appearance of being drunk.
Irritability upon withdrawal.
Dizziness and fainting.
Seizures.
Rapid heart rate.
Insomnia.

Soma Side Effects

The physiology of Soma addiction is only half the story. The social and mental impact of Soma abuse is typically similar to that of other dugs. Long-term abusers of Soma and/or other drugs often:

Continually make appointments with doctors in attempts to get pills.
Display agitation and irritability.
Withdraw from friends and social activities.
Show signs of depression.
Are unable to sleep.
Display impaired concentration and ability to think clearly.

Soma Abuse Treatment Types

If you are concerned about your use of Soma and/or other drugs, you can get help. There are a number of options for recovery that will get you back on the road to a healthy and fulfilling life. Consider one or more of the following methods of treatment:

Inpatient treatment. This offers an immersive and supervised recovery process.
Outpatient treatment. This option does not offer an immersive environment, but it does offer patients the ability to live at home and continue working during the process of recovery.
12-Step programs. These programs offer a supportive network and a clearly outlined path to sobriety.
SMART Recovery. This option uses a specific 4-point model for getting your life back on track and maintaining sobriety.

Soma: Key Statistics

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 1 out of every 20 people in the U.S. over 12 years old reported misusing prescription painkillers in the prior year.
The CDC also reports that, in 2010 alone, enough prescriptions were doled out to provide 24/7 medication for every American adult.
Over 3 million people in the U.S. have reported recreational use of Soma at some point in their lives, according to the 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

Teen Soma Abuse

Prescription drug use is a concern among teens because these substances can be easier to access and perceived as less threatening than illicit drugs.

If you have prescriptions, always lock them away and monitor the amounts used. And remember, the best way to prevent drug use in your teen is to talk to them about the dangers of drug use (more than once).

It’s important to clearly explain that prescription drugs are not safe just because they come from a doctor. Moreover, they are especially dangerous when not taken as prescribed, taken in combination with alcohol or other drugs, or taken via alternate methods such as injection.

Find Soma Addiction Treatment Programs

Soma misuse can quickly lead to dependence, especially when combined with other substances like alcohol or opioids. If you’re struggling with Soma addiction, professional treatment can help you safely detox and begin recovery with medical and emotional support. You can find Soma addiction treatment programs near you that offer personalized care, including therapy and relapse prevention planning. If mental health is also a concern, consider co-occurring disorder treatment. Not sure what services are covered? Check your insurance coverage and take the first step toward a healthier, substance-free life.