What is Carisoprodol used for? Carisoprodol is an effective skeletal muscle relaxant. It is used to alleviate the discomforts brought about by painful musculoskeletal conditions. It may also be used as treatment for other ailments that bring about muscle pain.
How does Carisoprodol work? Carisoprodol produces a muscle relaxing effect by blocking activity between the nerves in the descending reticular formation and the spinal cord. Carisoprodol is commonly prescribed to be used in conjunction with rest, physical therapy, and exercise. It is a fast-acting muscle relaxant that has effects that last from four to six hours.
What are the side effects of using Carisoprodol? The most common side effects of using Carisoprodol are usually transient and usually go away after a couple of weeks of dosing. These mild side effects may include:
Dizziness Drowsiness Headache Lightheadedness Nausea Upset stomach Vomiting
Severe side effects are rare but they may also manifest. These side effects require immediate medical attention once experienced. These severe side effects may include:
Mood or mental changes (e.g. agitation, confusion) Disorientation Eye pain or irritation Fainting Fast or irregular heartbeat Fever Joint pain Loss of coordination Paralysis in the arms and legs Seizures Severe or persistent dizziness Severe weakness Tremors Vision changes (e.g. loss of vision, double vision)
What special precautions need to be considered before taking Carisoprodol? Precautionary measures are important to prevent developing complications while taking Carisoprodol. Here are some important precautions before taking Generic Carisoprodol:
Because Carisoprodol causes drowsiness, it is best to avoid engaging in activities that require full alertness such as driving, swimming, or operating heavy machineries. This minimizes the chances of Carisoprodol users to encounter accidents while under the effect of the medication. Because Carisoprodol can cause seizures, people with seizure disorders are encouraged to inform their doctors about their condition for either a dosage adjustment or a different medication altogether. This is to prevent triggering seizure attacks. Certain medications may counteract or lessen the effectivity of Carisoprodol. This is why it is important to inform your doctor of any medication you are currently using. Any over-the-counter medicine, other prescription medication, vitamin, or supplement should be listed down and endorsed to your doctor to determine whether you can use Carisoprodol or if you need a dosage adjustment. Withdrawal symptoms could manifest once Carisoprodol intake is abruptly stopped, that is why it is important to inform your doctor once the dosing schedule is nearing its end to be able to properly adjust the dosage before you finally quit using Carisoprodol. Consumers should advise their doctors of all medication allergies they may have to avoid having an allergic reaction to Carisoprodol. Allergic reactions may include rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue; and hoarseness.
What should be done in case of Carisoprodol overdose? Carisoprodol overdose may manifest itself through symptoms like stupor, coma, shock, respiratory depression, and, very rarely, death. At the first sign of Carisoprodol overdose, immediately stop taking Carisoprodol and rush to the nearest medical facility for emergency medical help.
It is important to know as much as you can regarding prescription medications before you take them. Keep in mind that these medicines can both be beneficial and dangerous at the same time. For more information regarding Carisoprodol and its effects on your body, talk to your consulting physician and your local pharmacist.
