How to Help a Soma Addict

Help for Soma Addicts

Soma (generic name: carisoprodol) is a prescription muscle relaxer that can be addictive if used beyond the recommended dosage or duration. Taking Soma can also be problematic if it is abused in combination with other substances such as alcohol, opiates, and other prescription sedatives.

Abuse of Soma is increasingly prevalent, and it has been found to be more addictive than was originally believed. Treatment approaches frequently include one or more of the following:

• Medical detoxification.
• Inpatient or residential rehabilitation.
• Outpatient treatment.
• Aftercare and relapse prevention.

Is Soma Addictive?

Soma effectively blocks the pain pathway between nerves and the brain. It acts on the central nervous system (CNS) and produces:

• Feelings of sedation.
• Decreased feelings of pain.
• Reduced anxiety.
• Drowsiness.

Soma is a Schedule IV controlled substance, meaning it carries potential for abuse and addiction. It may even be addictive to those taking it as directed, especially if the user has a history of substance abuse. Soma’s potential for abuse and addiction is especially high when it is taken:

• Above the recommended dosage.
• For prolonged periods of time.
• In combination with other prescription and illegal drugs or alcohol.

Long-term use of the drug is associated with abuse and dependency. This is thought to be related to Soma’s metabolite meprobamate—a compound that impacts receptors in the brain to slow brain and nervous system activity. Meprobamate itself was once a widely prescribed sedative drug (marketed under the name Miltown) with known addictive potential.

High or prolonged levels of meprobamate in an individual’s blood can lead to dependency. A person can develop tolerance to Soma quickly, requiring higher and higher doses to achieve the same effect. Soma is normally prescribed for no more than 2-3 weeks to lessen the risk of tolerance and dependency.

What Are the Signs of Soma Addiction?

It may be difficult to identify specific signs and symptoms of addiction to Soma, as it is often abused with other drugs. Signs can vary and are dependent on frequency of use, combination use with other drugs, and past drug history. Common signs and symptoms that may indicate Soma abuse include:

Am I Addicted to Soma?

You may be addicted to Soma if:

• You are taking it beyond its recommended prescription dosage or duration to achieve a specific physical or emotional feeling.
• You are consistently mixing Soma with other drugs to heighten their effects.
• You have begun relying on the drug to deal with withdrawal from another drug.
• Over time, you need a higher dose to achieve the same feeling.
• You crave using Soma alone or in combination with other drugs.
• You prioritize substance use over other responsibilities and activities.
• Your use is causing personal issues, such as relationship or financial problems.

Soma Addiction Treatment Programs

Due to the severity of withdrawal symptoms (abdominal pain, depression, heachache, insomnia, nausea, etc.), many people choose to quit using Soma with the help of medically supervised detox and treatment.

Addiction treatment can be complex, especially when Soma is combined with other drugs. In these cases, rehabilitation programs that include therapy and detoxification steps are often required for successful recovery from prescription drug addiction.

If you or someone you know might be addicted to Soma, it is extremely important to get treatment as soon as possible. Long-term abuse of or overdose on this drug can lead to seizures, damaged organs, and hospitalization. Don’t let Soma addiction steal one more day.

American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading treatment provider and has trusted rehab programs across the country. Please call us free at to help yourself or a loved one now.