“Comprehensive Guide to Carisoprodol 350 mg: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Safety”

What is Carisoprodol?

Carisoprodol is a prescription medication used to treat musculoskeletal pain and muscle spasms. It works by affecting communication between nerves in the central nervous system (CNS), thereby relaxing muscles.

Indications (Uses):

• Short-term treatment of acute musculoskeletal pain
• Commonly prescribed for:
  • Muscle spasms
  • Back pain
  • Strains or sprains
  • Injuries involving muscle tension

Note: It is usually prescribed alongside rest, physical therapy, and other treatments.

Dosage and Administration:

• Typical adult dose:
  350 mg, taken 3 to 4 times daily, including at bedtime.
• Duration:
  Recommended for short-term use only, generally no more than 2-3 weeks, as efficacy over longer periods is not established and due to potential for dependence and abuse.
• Route:
  Oral tablet

Side Effects:

Common:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Sedation

Serious:

• Seizures (rare)
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, difficulty breathing)
• Dependence and withdrawal symptoms
• Impaired motor coordination

Contraindications:

• History of acute intermittent porphyria
• Hypersensitivity to carisoprodol or related compounds (e.g., meprobamate)
• Pregnancy Category C: Risk to fetus cannot be ruled out.
• Lactation: Excreted in breast milk – use with caution.

Drug Interactions:

• Alcohol: Increases CNS depression
• Benzodiazepines, opioids, antidepressants: Risk of additive sedation
• CYP2C19 inhibitors/inducers: May alter carisoprodol metabolism

Storage:

• Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C / 68°F to 77°F)
• Keep away from moisture, light, and out of reach of