Carisoprodol (i.e., Soma®,
Soprodal®, Vanadom®) is
a pharmaceutical typically
prescribed to relieve symptoms of
muscle pain or discomfort, but it can
cause drowsiness and sedation in excess
doses.1 Carisoprodol is converted by
the liver to meprobamate, a drug
used to treat anxiety, that can result in
physical and psychological dependence
when used in excess. This conversion
may account for some of the effects of
carisoprodol and likely contributes to
its potential for abuse.2 The Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) recommends
using carisoprodol no longer than 2 to 3
weeks to avoid the risk for dependence,
withdrawal, and abuse.3