Soma Side Effects
Soma (generic name carisoprodol) is a muscle-relaxant drug used to treat musculoskeletal pain caused by injuries such as spasms, sprains, and strains. The drug is taken orally in tablet form and works to block the pain sensation between the nerves and brain, calming the nerves as well.
The most common side effects of Soma are dizziness, drowsiness, and headache. These side effects are usually not life threatening, but there are other less common side effects that require immediate emergency attention.
Any patient who experiences a severe allergic reaction to Soma, such as difficulty in breathing, itching, tightness in the chest, wheezing, difficulty in swallowing, hoarseness, hives, rash, burning in the eyes; or swelling of the face, mouth, lips, tongue, or throat, should seek emergency treatment at once. Severe dizziness also warrants emergency care.
There are side effects to Soma that do not demand emergency treatment; however, a patient who experiences any of these side effects should discontinue using the drug and contact their doctor. Some of the less serious side effects include fast heartbeat (tachycardia), weakness or lack of coordination, shakiness, unsteadiness, a faint or light-headed feeling, loss of feeling (paralysis), and seizures or convulsions. The patient may also experience vision loss, double vision, or widened pupils.
In addition, a patient should notify his or her doctor if he or she experiences fever, chills, sore throat, or joint pain. Sometimes a patient may become addicted to Soma, desiring the drug after it's no longer needed. A doctor should be contacted if this occurs, as well.
Some side effects of Soma may not require immediate medical attention, but a patient would be wise to let a doctor know if any of these side effects occur. They include low blood pressure (hypotension), a feeling of spinning (vertigo), tremor, depression, irritability or agitation, confusion, mood swings, insomnia, blurred vision, flushing of the face, hiccups, nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach or stomach pain.
The use of Soma can be an effective treatment for musculoskeletal pain and injuries. However, as with any prescription medication, the patient needs to use it as directed and be aware of its potential side effects.