Soma Addiction: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Soma, a widely prescribed muscle relaxant, has become a cornerstone in managing acute musculoskeletal pain. Known generically as carisoprodol, this medication works by blocking pain signals between nerves and the brain, providing much-needed relief from strains, sprains, and other injuries. 

However, while Soma can be a powerful ally in pain management, it also carries risks, particularly for those with a history of substance misuse. Understanding how Soma works, its uses, and the potential dangers is crucial for anyone considering this medication.

What Is Soma Medication?

Soma, also known by its generic name carisoprodol, is a prescription medicine that is commonly used as a muscle relaxant. It mostly treats acute musculoskeletal pain and discomfort caused by strains and sprains. Soma drug works by blocking pain signals between nerves and the brain, enabling muscles to relax and delivering pain relief.

How Soma Medication Works?

Soma belongs to a medication class known as centrally-acting muscle relaxants. It alters the central nervous system, notably the parts controlling muscular action, and reduces pain in damaged muscles by interfering with transmitting pain signals in the spinal cord and brain.

Safety Considerations

While Soma can be beneficial in controlling pain when taken correctly, it should be used cautiously to minimize potential dangers. Individuals with a history of substance misuse should especially avoid using Soma, as it has the potential to cause abuse and addiction. 

Furthermore, it is not advised for long-term usage or as a general pain reliever. Before starting Soma, consult a physician about any pre-existing medical issues or ongoing medications.

What Is Soma Medication Used For?

Soma, also known as carisoprodol, is primarily used as a muscle relaxant to treat acute musculoskeletal pain. Soma medicine is commonly used for the following purposes.

• Muscle Strains: Soma is a pain reliever used to treat strained or torn muscles.

• Muscle Sprains: It can help relieve pain caused by sprained ligaments or tendons.

• Muscle Injuries: Soma may be given to treat pain caused by muscular injuries, such as those caused by accidents or physical trauma.

• Post-Surgery Discomfort: Soma can alleviate pain and muscular tension after surgical operations in rare situations.

• Musculoskeletal Conditions: It is occasionally recommended to offer relief from muscular-skeletal conditions such as fibromyalgia.

• Back Pain: Soma can be used to provide short-term relief from acute back pain caused by a variety of reasons, including muscular spasms.

• Neck ache: It can aid in the relief of neck discomfort caused by muscular tension or strain.

• Physical Therapy: Soma may be administered in combination with physical therapy to improve the efficiency of rehabilitation exercises.

• Sports Injuries: It can treat pain caused by sports-related injuries to the muscles.

Signs of Soma Addiction

Recognizing the symptoms of Soma addiction can be crucial for early detection and treatment. If you or someone you know is using Soma and exhibiting the following symptoms, it’s advised that you seek support through a medical professional or drug rehab center:

Increasing Tolerance

Higher dosages of Soma are required over time to produce the same pain-relieving benefits or attain the appropriate relaxation level.

Compulsive Use

Feeling prompted to use Soma even when it is not medically essential or after the prescribed amount has been taken.

• Using Soma without Prescription: Obtaining Soma without a legitimate prescription or from several sources.

• Preoccupation with Soma: Constantly considering the next Soma dose or organizing activities around its usage.

• Neglecting Responsibilities: Failing to fulfill obligations at work, school, or home due to Soma use.

• Social Isolation: Withdrawing from friends, family, and social activities in favor of using Soma.

• Engaging in Risky Behaviors: Taking greater dosages of Soma or mixing it with other substances to enhance its effects can be harmful and perhaps fatal.

• Doctor Shopping: Obtaining numerous prescriptions from different doctors to obtain more Soma than is medically required.

• Inability to Stop Using: Trying unsuccessfully to quit or cut back on Soma use despite wanting to do so.

• Continued Use Despite Negative Consequences: Continuing to use Soma despite negative repercussions on physical health, emotional well-being, relationships, or financial stability.

• Craving for Soma: Having extreme cravings or an overpowering urge to use Soma regularly.

• Physical and Psychological Withdrawal Symptoms: When attempting to quit taking Soma, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sleeplessness, anxiety, muscular pains, and irritability.

• Lack of Control: Feeling unable to control or restrict Soma usage leads to increasing dosages and frequency.

• Secretive Behavior: Hiding Soma use from friends, family, or healthcare providers.

• Loss of Interest: Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities and interests, with Soma usage taking precedence.

Soma Medication Side Effects

While Soma (carisoprodol) can help with musculoskeletal pain, it can also induce side effects in some people. The severity of these adverse effects might vary, including the following.

• Drowsiness: Drowsiness or extreme sleepiness is one of the most common Soma side effects. This impact can decrease cognitive function and reaction times, potentially making driving or operating machinery risky.

• Dizziness: While using Soma, some people may feel lightheaded or dizzy, especially after rising from a seated or laying posture.

• Headache: Some people have reported headaches as a side effect of Soma medicine.

• Upset Stomach: Soma has been linked to gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach distress.

• Dry Mouth: Some people can experience mouth dryness when using Soma.

• A feeling of Euphoria: Soma tends to produce sensations of euphoria or a sense of well-being, which can contribute to its abuse and addiction potential.

• Confusion or Disorientation: Soma can cause disorientation, trouble concentrating, and memory issues in certain people.

• Rash or Allergic Reactions: Soma may occasionally produce skin rashes or allergic reactions, which should be reported to a physician immediately.

• Tremors or Shaking: Soma can cause trembling or shaking movements in certain people.

• Depression: In vulnerable people, Soma usage may aggravate or induce symptoms of depression.

• Hiccups: Hiccups are a rare side effect of Soma.

Soma Interactions

Soma (carisoprodol) may interact with other medicines and substances, potentially causing adverse reactions or decreasing the efficacy of one or both prescriptions. To avoid potential interactions, inform your doctor about all your drugs, supplements, and herbal items. Soma's most common interactions are as follows.

Central Nervous System Depressants

When Soma is used with other central nervous system depressants, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, alcohol, or sleep medicines, the risk of excessive sedation, respiratory depression, and decreased cognitive function increases.

Antihistamines

Soma used with antihistamines might increase sleepiness and sedation.

Antidepressants

Some antidepressants, notably SSRIs and SNRIs, may interact with Soma and raise the risk of serotonin syndrome, characterized by agitation, high heart rate, disorientation, and muscular stiffness.

Antiepileptic Drugs

Soma may impair the efficacy of several antiepileptic drugs, increasing the risk of seizures.

CYP2C19 Inhibitors

Drugs that suppress the enzyme CYP2C19, which is responsible for metabolizing Soma, might result in higher levels in the circulation, potentially causing more significant sedation and other adverse effects.

CNS Stimulants

Stimulant medicines may negate Soma's calming effects, causing a misleading impression of alertness.

MAO Inhibitors

When Soma is used with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, the risk of serotonin syndrome and associated side effects increases.

Herbal Supplements

Some herbal supplements, especially those with sedative characteristics, may interact with Soma and increase its effects.

Caffeine

Caffeine can negate Soma's calming effects, perhaps causing anxiety or agitation.

Sedative Antihistamines

Soma used with sedative antihistamines in various over-the-counter cold and allergy medications can cause severe sleepiness and poor coordination.

Is Soma a Controlled Substance?

Yes, Soma (carisoprodol) is a Schedule IV controlled substance, which denotes it has a recognized medical use but also a potential for abuse and dependence. Its classification under the Controlled Substances Act requires it to be prescribed with care and strict adherence to guidelines to prevent misuse and diversion. 

Soma must be used only under a doctor’s direction, and it's crucial not to share the medication or use it in ways not prescribed. Proper disposal of unused Soma is also essential to prevent abuse.

Is Soma Addictive?

Yes, Soma (carisoprodol) is potentially addictive. Although not considered an opioid, it is a centrally-acting muscle relaxant with sedative characteristics. Because of the sedative effects, it can cause sensations of relaxation and euphoria, rendering it vulnerable to overuse and abuse.

Soma can give excellent relief for acute musculoskeletal pain when taken as advised and for a short period. However, when taken in greater quantities or for a longer time, it can cause physical dependence and addiction.

Addiction to Soma can develop when individuals:

• Take higher doses than prescribed

• Use Soma for longer than recommended

• Combine Soma with other substances to intensify its effects

• Continue using Soma even when the initial medical need for it has resolved

• Experience cravings and a compulsive desire to use the drug regularly

Struggling with Soma Addiction? Call The Forge Recovery Center.

Navigating the complexities of dependence and addiction can be daunting, but remember, you’re not alone. Help is available, and The Forge Recovery Center is here to support you. Our team of treatment experts offers a range of therapies tailored to your needs, alongside a community of peers who understand your struggles. 

Don’t wait to take the first step towards recovery. Call us today to learn more about our treatment programs and start your journey to a healthier, addiction-free life.

Written by

The Forge Recovery Center

Reviewed by

Jeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

January 12, 2025