Carisoprodol is a muscle relaxant that is thought to act on the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). It is used to treat acute musculo-skeletal disorders assocaited with painful muscle spasm, where sedation is acceptable.
The mechanism of action of this drug is unclear, but it is thought to decrease the impulses from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles. (It has no direct action on the muscle itself). This causes the muscles to relax and hence decreases the spasm.
Why is this drug prescribed?
- Uncontrolled contraction of muscle (muscle spasm);
Carisoprodol is used, along with rest, physical therapy, and other measures, for the relief of acute, painful muscle strains and spasms.
Carisoprodol alone will not heal your muscles. You need to follow the program of physical therapy, rest, or exercise that your doctor prescribes. Do not attempt any more physical activity than your doctor recommends, even though Carisoprodol temporarily makes it seem feasible.
- vomiting;
- vertigo;
- tremors;
- stomach upset;
- rapid heart rate;
- nausea;
- loss of coordination;
- light-headedness upon standing up;
- irritability;
- inability to fall or stay asleep;
- hiccups;
- headache;
- fainting;
- facial flushing;
- drowsiness;
- dizziness;
- depression;
- visual disturbances;
- tiredness (lethargy);
- skin rashes;
- nausea;
- muscle weakness;
- low blood pressure (hypotension);
- irritability;
- headache;
- flushing;
- drowsiness;
- dizziness;
- disturbances of the gut such as diarrhoea constipation nausea vomiting or abdominal pain;
- confusion;
- balance problems involving the inner ear (vertigo);
- agitation;
ADULTS
The usual dosage of Carisoprodol is one 350-mg tablet, taken 3 times daily and at bedtime.
CHILDREN
The safety and effectiveness of Carisoprodol have not been established in children under 12 years of age.
