From the Guidelines
Carisoprodol is a prescription muscle relaxant medication primarily used to treat acute musculoskeletal pain and discomfort, with a recommended short-term use of 2-3 weeks due to its potential for dependence and abuse. It works by affecting the central nervous system, specifically altering communication between nerves in the brain and spinal cord that control muscle contractions, thereby reducing pain sensations 1. The typical adult dosage is 250-350 mg taken three times daily and at bedtime.
Key Considerations
- Carisoprodol carries risks of side effects including sedation, seizures, drug dependence, withdrawal, tachycardia, and postural hypotension 1.
- It is classified as a controlled substance (Schedule IV) in the United States due to its abuse and addiction potential.
- Patients should avoid alcohol while taking carisoprodol, as the combination can dangerously increase sedation.
- It's not recommended for long-term use due to tolerance development and should be discontinued gradually to prevent withdrawal symptoms 1.
Clinical Guidance
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential for carisoprodol abuse and dependence, and monitor patients closely for signs of addiction 1.
- Carisoprodol should be used judiciously and only when necessary, due to its potential risks and side effects.
- Alternative treatments, such as rest, physical therapy, and other medications, should be considered before prescribing carisoprodol 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Carisoprodol is indicated for the relief of discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions in adults. Carisoprodol is used for the relief of discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions in adults.
- The use of carisoprodol is recommended for short periods (up to two or three weeks) 2.
From the Research
Uses of Carisoprodol
- Carisoprodol is a centrally acting drug used to relieve skeletal muscle spasms and associated pain in acute musculoskeletal conditions 3.
- It is used to treat acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions, such as acute lower-back spasm 4.
- Carisoprodol is one of the commonly prescribed muscle relaxants for the management of back pain, along with cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride and metaxalone 5.
Efficacy of Carisoprodol
- Carisoprodol has been shown to be effective in relieving backache and improving functional status in patients with acute muscle spasm of the lower back 4.
- It has been found to be significantly more effective than placebo in patient-rated global impression of change and patient-rated relief from starting backache 4.
- Carisoprodol can produce clinical improvement with or without sedation 4.
Safety and Adverse Effects
- The use of carisoprodol is associated with adverse effects such as drowsiness/sedation, fatigue, and dizziness 5.
- There is a potential for abuse with carisoprodol, which is of growing concern 3, 5.
- Carisoprodol can impair performance on psychomotor tests, even at therapeutic doses, which can put patients at risk when engaging in tasks such as driving 3.