Soma is the brand name for carisoprodol, a painkiller used to relieve back, joint, and muscle pain. The pill comes in two doses, 250 mg and 350 mg tablets. It is produced by Meda Pharmaceuticals. Soma is a controlled substance and the drug is only available with a prescription.
History
The word "Soma" originates in ancient times with the Aryans of India as the name of an important, sacred drug, which they lauded in their myths and religious hymns. Savvy marketeers of the current drug adopted the same name for Meda Pharmaceuticals' painkiller.
How Soma Works
Soma works as a painkiller by blocking the electrical connections between nerves, the brain stem, and the spinal cord. The drug is often given with a recommended regimen of rest and physical therapy. Soma is for short-term use of two to three weeks.
Side Effects of Soma
Because it is addictive and can be abused, Soma is a controlled substance. Drowsiness, dizziness, and headaches are the most common side effects. More severe side effects include chills, depression, vomiting, racing heartbeat, chest tightness and unusual weakness. A Soma overdose can result in death.
In 2007 the Food and Drug Administration approved the lower 250 mg dosage of Soma, which had been introduced to reduce the physical side effects of the painkiller.
Restrictions on Soma
Rules restricting access of Soma have been tightened in several states including Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, and West Virginia.
Access has also been limited in some European countries where officials were alarmed by instances of drug abuse.
According to the Florida Pharmacy Association, Soma is often combined with codeine or hydrocodone by abusers seeking a greater high from the painkiller.
Fun Fact
Soma is also the name of a fictional drug in Aldous Huxley's 1932 book, "Brave New World." In Huxley's futuristic novel, nearly everyone was addicted to Soma, which had an intoxicating, hallucinogenic property.
Tags: controlled substance, Meda Pharmaceuticals, side effects, Soma controlled, Soma controlled substance