IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

Carisoprodol is a muscle relaxer that works by blocking pain sensations between the nerves and the brain. Carisoprodol is used together with rest and physical therapy to treat injuries and other painful musculoskeletal conditions. Carisoprodol may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

This medication may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Carisoprodol should never be given to another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. You may have withdrawal symptoms when you stop using carisoprodol after using it over a long period of time. Do not stop using this medication suddenly without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. Carisoprodol can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by carisoprodol.

Carisoprodol is a centrally-acting skeletal muscle relaxant whose active metabolite is meprobamate. Carisoprodol is marketed in the United States under the brand name Soma. Carisoprodol is especially useful against various types of pain (whether or not related to muscle spasm) because of its analgesic-sparing (potentiating) effect on opioid analgesics.