Soma Pill: Fights Intense Muscle Pain

An effective muscle relaxer, Soma- is a brand name of Carisoprodol which is used in the treatment of muscle pain. The generic drug was discovered in the 1950s while its brand Soma was introduced only in 2007.

Basically used a muscle relaxer, Soma pill is considered to be a first line treatment for muscle pain. However, it is not a long term treatment but is prescribed for a limited time only. This painkiller helps in facilitating the underlying treatment of musculoskeletal pain.

What exactly is Soma pill used for?

Soma pill is considered to be the fastest acting muscle relaxer. In fact, it is mostly prescribed by doctors in the treatment of the following conditions-

•        Lower back pain

•        Neck pain

•        Muscle pain due to excessive physical activity

•        Muscle soreness and spasms.

•        Pain arising from a muscle injury

•        Pain arising as a result of a viral/bacterial infection

•        Post-surgical pain

Can Soma pill treat severe chronic pain?

Soma pill is not generally prescribed for chronic pain. It belongs to a specific group of mild pain relievers. It helps in treating mild to moderate levels of acute pain only. For breakthrough acute pain, this medication is considered to be very effective. This is mainly due to its fast kick-in. A higher dose of this medication can treat severe pain under the supervision of a doctor only.

How does Soma pill work?

The active ingredient Carisoprodol can help block out the painful sensations. It can alter the direction of the pain signals. By binding to certain receptors in the brain, it can effectively block out the pain signals between the brain and the nerves in the affected area. This drives the discomfort away and the underlying treatment can be carried out effectively.

At the same time, Soma pill can also provide a soothing effect on the central nervous system as a whole. It can inhibit the reuptake of serotonin by the nerves and increase its availability in the brain pathways. This helps the person to feel relieved and also, fight off pain-induced anxiety/stress.

How fast is Carisoprodol?

The effectiveness of this medication will considerably depend on the health condition of the person. Soma pill can instantly kick in within a span of 30 minutes after its intake. It does not take long for the drug to drive away the painful sensations. Also, the biological half life of Carisoprodol is approximately 2 hours. This means that the drug is eliminated from your body within a period of 4-5 hours, and you can take the next dose. Such a short half-life also reduces the possibility of drug accumulation in the body.

How to take Soma pill?

Carisoprodol dosage will depend on your age, health condition, and tolerance. The type and intensity of pain will also help in determining its effective dose. So, it is always advisable to consult with a physician and follow his/her instructions carefully.

Some general guidelines for taking this muscle relaxer are-

•        The ideally recommended dose for this medication is 250-350 mg. You can take this pill 3 times a day and even at bedtime.

•        You can take it with or without food as per prescription.

•        Make sure to take this medication at the same time each day.

•        Avoid alcohol consumption while you take this medication.

•        Do not increase or decrease its dose without a prior prescription from the doctor.

•        Soma 500 mg is the maximum dose which you should take only under severe conditions.

•        Do not overdose on Soma as it will lose its effectiveness and lead to health risks.

•        The maximum period for which it is prescribed is 3 weeks.

Inform your doctor about the following:

•        The cause why you think the muscle pain could have occurred.

•        Any medical past relating to cardiovascular, hepatic, metabolic or renal disorders.

•        The list of other prescription or non-prescription medications which you are taking.

•        Any Allergy to certain drugs or food items.

•        Any medical history of drug abuse or addiction.

•        If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the near future.

•        Your regular alcohol consumption or smoking (if any)