What is Soma (Carisoprodol)?
Yes, Soma is a real, genuine prescription medication. Its generic name is carisoprodol, and it is classified as a centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant. First approved by the FDA in 1959, Soma is used as an adjunctive treatment alongside rest and physical therapy for the short-term relief of discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions, such as strains and sprains. It is important to note that Soma is not a long-term solution and is typically prescribed for a period of only two to three weeks.
Carisoprodol's primary effect on the body is muscle relaxation, which is believed to stem from its action on the central nervous system (CNS) to alter how nerve signals are transmitted. The drug is metabolized into meprobamate, a substance that also has sedative effects and is classified as a Schedule IV drug with a known potential for abuse. Because of its own sedative properties and its metabolism into meprobamate, Soma itself is also a federally regulated Schedule IV controlled substance.
Why is Soma a controlled substance?
The federal government classifies Soma (carisoprodol) as a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its potential for misuse, abuse, and dependence. While it is a legitimate medication, it is also frequently misused for its sedative and euphoric effects. This risk is heightened when Soma is taken in higher doses than prescribed or combined with other central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol or opioids. This combination, sometimes called a "holy trinity" on the street, can be exceptionally dangerous, leading to severe respiratory depression, overdose, and even death.
Risk factors that increase the potential for Soma abuse:
- History of substance use disorder
- Taking higher doses or more frequently than prescribed
- Seeking prescriptions from multiple doctors
- Combining with other CNS depressants like alcohol or opioids
- Using it for a longer duration than recommended
Short-term effects and side effects of Soma
When taken as prescribed for short-term use, Soma's side effects are generally mild and manageable. However, the risk of serious side effects increases with higher doses or misuse.
Common side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Increased clumsiness
- Rapid heart rate
- Upset stomach or nausea
Severe side effects requiring immediate medical attention include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Confusion or hallucinations
- Seizures
- Unusual weakness
- Symptoms of overdose, such as coma or shock
Soma vs. Other Muscle Relaxants
Soma is one of several muscle relaxants available, but its classification as a controlled substance sets it apart from many of its peers. The following table compares Soma to cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) and tizanidine (Zanaflex), two other common muscle relaxants.
| Feature | Soma (Carisoprodol) | Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) | Tizanidine (Zanaflex) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Controlled Status | Schedule IV controlled substance | Not a controlled substance | Not a controlled substance |
| Use Case | Short-term relief for acute musculoskeletal pain | Short-term relief for muscle pain and spasms | Treats muscle spasticity from conditions like MS or spinal cord injury |
| Potential for Abuse | High potential for abuse and dependence | Lower potential for abuse and dependence | Lower potential for abuse |
| Frequency | Typically taken four times daily | Available in IR (up to 3x/day) and ER (1x/day) | Typically taken up to three times daily |
| Side Effects | Drowsiness, dizziness, headaches; significant sedation potential | Drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness | Drowsiness, dry mouth, low blood pressure |
Treatment length and dependency
Due to its potential for dependence, Soma should only be used for a maximum of two to three weeks. Long-term use can lead to physical dependence, where the body becomes accustomed to the drug and requires it to function normally. When someone with physical dependence suddenly stops taking Soma, they can experience withdrawal symptoms, which may include anxiety, insomnia, tremors, and nausea. In severe cases of dependence, withdrawal symptoms can be similar to those seen with alcohol withdrawal. For this reason, a doctor may advise a gradual tapering of the dose rather than an abrupt stop.
Conclusion: The reality of Soma
To conclude, is soma a real drug? Yes, it is. Soma, or carisoprodol, is a legitimate, real, and federally regulated prescription medication for the short-term treatment of muscle pain. However, its powerful sedative effects and the fact that its metabolite is also a scheduled drug mean it comes with a high potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction. Due to these risks, its use is strictly regulated, intended for short-term treatment only, and not recommended for people with a history of substance abuse or addiction. Patients should always use Soma strictly as prescribed and report any concerns to their healthcare provider. For more information on the scheduling of controlled substances in the US, consult the DEA's official resources.
