Soma/Vanadom (carisoprodol)

Pronunciation: kar eye soe PROE dole
Brand: Soma, Vanadom

What is Soma?

Soma belongs to a group of medicines called mucsle relaxants. It blocks nerve impulses that are sent to the brain. It is used to treat injuries and other painful muscular conditions.

FDA approved:

October 1986

Average Cost:

Prices range from $5.88 (Generic) to $229.19 (Soma) per 100 tablets.

Brand Names and International Availability:

Caridolin; Chinchen; Flexartal; Muslax; Neotica; Rela; Rotalin; Scutamil-C; Soma;(US)
Artifar (Greece)
Carisoma (England; India)
Myolax (Thailand)
Somadril (Denmark; Norway; Sweden)

How does it work?

The exact way that it works is unknown. It is assumed that the sedative properties may offer relief of discomfort associated with acute, painful, musculoskeletal conditions.

Dosage:

Soma Tablets 350 mg: Round, convex, white tablets, inscribed with SOMA on one side and 37-WALLACE 2001 on the other side. Usually 350 mg. tablets are taken three times daily and at bedtime.

How should I take it?

Take it as prescribed by your doctor with a full glass of water. The maximum dosage for one day is 1,400 mg (4 tablets). Store it at room temperature away from heat and moisture. If you miss a dose - take it as soon as you remember, UNLESS is close to the time for your next dose. In that case, simply skip the missed dose and continue on schedule. DO NOT TAKE A DOUBLE DOSE OF THIS DRUG. They should be at least four hours apart.

Contraindications:

Before taking this medication, let your doctor know if you have kidney or liver disease. Special monitoring or a lower dose may be needed.

It is not known how or if this drug will affect an unborn baby. If you are pregnant or nursing, talk to your doctor before taking this drug.

Not approved for use in children under 12.

Drug Interactions:

antihistamines




narcotics (pain killers)




sedatives




phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin), mesoridazine (Serentil), perphenazine (Trilafon), prochlorperazine (Compazine), thioridazine (Mellaril), and trifluoperazine (Stelazine)




antidepressants

Always make sure your Doctor and Pharmacist know ALL of the medications you are taking (including over the counter).

Possible side effects:

Side effects that are not cause for discontinuation, but need to be discussed with your doctor are:

• dizziness

• drowsiness

• blurred vision

• insomnia

• hiccups

• headache

• depression

But if you have:

• Difficulty breathing

• Closing of your throat

• Swelling of the tongue, face, or lips

• Hives

• Paralysis

• Vision Loss

• Tremor or agitation

Please stop taking the drug and seek medical attention right away. These could be signs of an allergic reaction to the medication.

Precautions & Special Notes: Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking this drug as it may cause dizziness and/or drowsiness. Avoid alchohol while using this drug, it may increase dizziness or drowsiness when combined with Soma. For more information:

Mosby's Drug Consult
RxList.com

References:
RxList.com
Mosby's Drug Consult