Facts on Soma Pill: How does it work?

About Soma (Carisoprodol):

Carisoprodol is the generic form of Soma pill, which is an oral prescription medication used in the treatment of muscle pain. It was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the year 2007.

Amongst the many painkillers available, Soma pill is the most prescribed pain relief medication for muscle pain treatments. It belongs to the drug class called muscle relaxers. Given below are some useful facts on this effective pain reliever-

•    First off, it is a specialized pain relief medication which targets the affected muscle or group of muscles.

•    Secondly, it is a milder form of pain relief medication which is used to treat mild to moderate levels of pain. A higher dose of Soma 500 mg can also be used to treat severe muscle pain.

•    This pain relief medication kicks in quite instantly to relief the stiff muscles. It is therefore used to treat breakthrough acute pain.

•    At a lower dose of 250 mg, this medication can effectively drive away lower back and neck pain.

•    Mostly, it is used by athletes and weight trainers for eradicating muscle soreness and spasms.

•    You can take this medication with or without food.

How does Soma pill work?

Soma pill has its active ingredient as Carisoprodol. The exact working mechanism of Carisoprodol in the body is not yet known. But researchers believe that it affects the working of the central nervous system as a whole, apart from targeting the musculoskeletal fibers.

Carisoprodol’s effects in the body start in around 30 minutes after its intake. The drug blocks out the pain between the brain and the nerves by binding to certain receptors. The muscles in the affected area feel relaxed and relieved from the pain and the discomfort. At the same time, it is seen to inhibit the reuptake of Serotonin and Norepinephrine by the nerves. This results in mood-elevation of the person as it helps him/her to fight off the pain-induced stress.

Are there any side effects of such mechanism?

In the process of such pain-eradication, it is possible that the person might come across the following side effects-

•    Extreme weakness leading to poor coordination and movement

•    Slight dizziness or lightheadedness if you sit or stand up suddenly

•    Getting easily confused and agitated

•    A reaction where the skin becomes red or it easily blisters

•    Swelling of the lips

•    Feeling fatigued or easily tired

•    Indigestion or other stomach troubles

•    An occurrence of nauseated feeling occasionally

This might not be the complete list of all the side effects. If you come across any of these or other side effects, make sure to let your doctor know immediately.

Things to inform your doctor about-

•    Any medical past relating to cardiovascular, hepatic, metabolic or renal disorders.

•    Other prescription or non-prescription medications which you are taking.

•    If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant

•    If you are allergic to certain drugs or food items

•    Your regular alcohol consumption or smoking (if any)

Make sure that you follow your doctor’s instructions carefully in order to achieve effective results of taking this pain relief medication. Also, you should take timely rest and undergo proper physical therapy as prescribed by your doctor.