For mild to moderate muscle pains, doctors advise sufferers to rest and take over-the-counter pain relief medications until the pain goes away, or becomes more bearable. For moderate to severe muscle discomforts, most physicians suggest the use of prescription medications like carisoprodol to do the job.



Carisoprodol is a certified muscle relaxant and pain reliever in one. It works by binding itself to the opioid receptors (pain receptors) in the brain to intercept pain sensations before it get to the corresponding receptors in the brain. When used in addition to rest, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle, carisoprodol's efficacy can be maximized.

Using carisoprodol can bring about side effects such as:

?Dizziness

?Vertigo

?Loss of muscle coordination (ataxia)

?Tremor

?Agitation

?Irritability

?Headache

?Depressive reaction

?Insomnia

?Increased heart rate (tachycardia)

?Facial flushing

?Nausea

?Vomiting

?Hiccup

?Upset stomach.

Carisoprodol is not to be used on people with allergies to it or any of its related components like meprobamate, mebutamate, and tybamate. In the initial onset of an allergic reaction, discontinue using the prescription drug and seek treatment. Mild allergic reaction may be treated by taking antihistamines or epinephrine doses. Mild allergy attacks may manifest in skin rashes and breathing difficulties. There are severe allergic reactions that require immediate medical attention upon manifestation. These symptoms include:

?Temporary paralysis on all four limbs (transient quadriplegia)

?Extreme weakness

?Temporary loss of vision

?Double vision (diplopia)

?Euphoria

?Confusion and disorientation

Although carisoprodol is an effective muscle relaxant and discomfort reliever, there are precautions to be considered before using this medication. People with a history of drug dependency should be careful in using carisoprodol to avoid developing an addiction to it. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should first discuss the full benefits and risks of using carisoprodol with their physician before use. The effects of this prescription drug on unborn babies and breastfeeding infants have not yet been established. Also, because carisoprodol is processed in the liver and excreted through the kidneys, it is important that the liver and kidneys are fully functional to avoid accumulation of carisoprodol residue in the body. Those with liver and kidney dysfunctions or disorders should inform their physicians about it for an appropriate dosage adjustment.

Keep in mind that taking carisoprodol can indirectly affect your daily activities during the dosing period. Due to the various side effects that patients may experience, it is best to limit engaging in activities that require full consciousness like driving. Also, it is better to avoid performing potentially hazardous tasks while taking carisoprodol to ensure safety until your muscle discomforts have been relieved.