Carisoprodol
Carisoprodol is a muscle relaxant medication used to relieve discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions such as strains, sprains, and other muscle injuries. It is typically prescribed for short-term use, usually 2-3 weeks, as the benefits are most apparent during acute phases of injury. The exact mechanism by which carisoprodol produces its muscle relaxant effects has not been fully established.
Carisoprodol is a short-term muscle relaxant used to treat acute musculoskeletal pain and discomfort.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- M03BA02
- RxNorm
- 2101
- Generic
- Carisoprodol
- Class
- atc-m03
- Brands
- Soma, Vanadom
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 350mg three times daily and at bedtime
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 6 hours as needed, not to exceed 1400mg daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- Not recommended for patients under 16 years
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- N/A
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 350mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
11 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
use only if benefits outweigh risks; avoid during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary
regular fetal monitoring recommended
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if benefits outweigh risks; avoid prolonged use
regular prenatal checkups and fetal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid near term if possible
avoid use near delivery; may cause neonatal withdrawal symptoms
monitor neonate for sedation and withdrawal signs after birth
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid or discontinue breastfeeding
carisoprodol is excreted in breast milk; avoid breastfeeding during treatment
monitor infant for excessive drowsiness
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
geriatric
elderlyreduce dose, start with 125mg
use with caution due to increased sensitivity; increased risk of falls and sedation
monitor for sedation, dizziness, and balance issues
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children under 12not recommended
not approved for use in pediatric patients under 12 years of age
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
adolescents 12 to 17use with caution, weight-based dosing
use only if benefits outweigh risks; monitor for adverse effects
monitor for sedation and CNS depression
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild renal impairmentno specific adjustment needed
use with caution; monitor renal function
periodic monitoring of renal function
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severe renal impairmentreduce dose or increase dosing interval
use with caution; consider dose reduction in severe impairment
monitor renal function and for signs of accumulation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild hepatic impairmentconsider dose reduction
use with caution; metabolized in liver
monitor liver function and for excessive sedation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
moderate to severe hepatic impairmentavoid or use significantly reduced dose
avoid use in moderate to severe hepatic impairment due to extensively metabolized in liver
monitor liver function closely if use is necessary
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
Original FDA approval date for Carisoprodol
Drug class
Pharmacological classification of Carisoprodol
Primary indication
Main therapeutic use for muscle pain and spasm
DEA Schedule
Legal classification as controlled substance in the United States
Used to treat acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions including muscle strains, sprains, and other muscle injuries associated with discomfort and pain. It is typically prescribed for short-term relief during the acute phase of these conditions.
The exact mechanism of action is not clearly identified. In animal studies, muscle relaxation induced by carisoprodol has been associated with altered interneuronal activity in the spinal cord and descending reticular formation. It is metabolized in the liver to meprobamate, which may contribute to its effects.
Carisoprodol has potential for abuse, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms, particularly with prolonged use or high doses. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and headache. It may impair mental and physical abilities required for activities such as driving. Use with alcohol or other CNS depressants should be avoided. Not recommended for use in patients with a history of substance abuse or porphyria.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy