provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Carisoprodol Coupon - Carisoprodol 350mg tablet

carisoprodol

Generic Soma
Used for Musculoskeletal Conditions
Used for Musculoskeletal Conditions

Carisoprodol (Soma) is a muscle relaxant that's used to treat muscle pain and discomfort in people ages 16 to 64. The tablets are approved for short-term treatment only and should only be taken for up to 2 to 3 weeks. Researchers think the medication relaxes muscles by changing nerve activity in your nervous system. Carisoprodol (Soma) is a controlled substance because it has a risk for misuse and dependence. Common side effects include headaches, dizziness, and sleepiness.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
reviewer
Cydnee Ng, PharmD
Last reviewed on March 13, 2024
BasicsWarningsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
Carisoprodol (Soma) is a controlled substance, which means that it's more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
basics-icon

What is Carisoprodol (Soma)?

What is Carisoprodol (Soma) used for?

  • Discomfort caused by painful muscle-related conditions (short-term only)

How Carisoprodol (Soma) works

Carisoprodol (Soma) is a muscle relaxant. The way it works to relieve muscle tension isn't well-understood. But the medication is thought to relax muscles by affecting the nerve activity in the brain and spinal cord.

Are you looking for information on cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) instead?
When does Carisoprodol (Soma) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsSoma
Drug ClassMuscle relaxant
Controlled Substance ClassificationSchedule IV
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$37.68(save 67.69%)
GoodRx discount
$12.18
See prices
warings-icon

What are the risks and warnings for Carisoprodol (Soma)?

Carisoprodol (Soma) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

risk-warning

Extreme sleepiness and trouble with concentration

  • Risk factors: Age 65 years or older | Drinking alcohol | Taking other medications that cause drowsiness

    Taking carisoprodol (Soma) can make you feel sleepy and have trouble concentrating or focusing. This is more likely to happen if you're over age 65 or if you take other medications that cause drowsiness. Don't drink alcohol while you're taking carisoprodol (Soma). Avoid activities that require you to be alert, like driving or operating machinery, until you know how this medication affects you.

    risk-warning

    Risk for misuse, dependence, and withdrawal

    • Risk factors: History of substance use disorder | Taking more carisoprodol (Soma) than prescribed | Taking carisoprodol (Soma) for a long time | Stopping carisoprodol (Soma) suddenly

      Only take carisoprodol (Soma) as instructed by your prescriber. Carisoprodol (Soma) has a risk for misuse. Misuse raises the risk for serious and life-threatening issues like having too much medication in the body and very slow breathing.

      In addition, people who take carisoprodol (Soma) for a longer time than recommended are at higher risk for dependence. And people who suddenly stop carisoprodol (Soma) after taking it regularly might have symptoms of withdrawal, including trouble sleeping, stomach cramps, headache, and hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't there). Ask your prescriber about how to safely stop taking carisoprodol (Soma).

      risk-warning

      Seizures

      • Risk factors: Taking more carisoprodol (Soma) than prescribed | Taking high doses of other habit-forming medications | Taking carisoprodol (Soma) with alcohol

        Though rare, some people who've taken carisoprodol (Soma) have had seizures. Most of these people either took too much medication (an overdose) or took their regular dose of carisoprodol (Soma) at the same time as alcohol or other habit-forming substances, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or sleep aids.

        Avoid alcohol until you're no longer taking carisoprodol (Soma). Ask your prescriber or pharmacist about how to safely take carisoprodol (Soma) with your other medications if they also have a risk for becoming habit-forming. Your prescriber might decide to choose a different muscle relaxer to be safe.

        basics-icon

        What are the side effects of Carisoprodol (Soma)?

        The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

        Common Side Effects

        • Drowsiness (13-17%)
        • Dizziness (7-8%)
        • Headache (3-5%)

        Other Side Effects

        • Fast heartbeat
        • Nausea
        • Vomiting
        • Stomach discomfort
        • Low blood pressure when you stand up from a seated position

        Serious Side Effects

        Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
        • Excessive drowsiness
        • Seizures
        When do Carisoprodol (Soma) possible side effects begin and end?
        Time passed since treatment started:
        MINUTES
        HOURS
        DAYS
        WEEKS
        MONTHS
        Drowsiness
        Dizziness

        Source: DailyMed

        More on Carisoprodol (Soma) side effects

        carisoprodol: side effects carisoprodol

        6 Carisoprodol Side Effects and Risks You Should Know About

        Written by Caleb Hoppe, PharmD
        muscle-relaxants: side effects muscle relaxers

        8 Muscle Relaxer Side Effects: Drowsiness, Dry Mouth, and More

        Written by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD

        The following side effects have also been reported

        Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

        Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

        Incidence not known

        Black, tarry stools

        chest pain

        chills

        cold sweats

        confusion

        convulsions

        cough

        dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

        fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

        fever

        loss of bladder control

        muscle spasm or jerking of all extremities

        painful or difficult urination

        shortness of breath

        sore throat

        sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth

        sudden loss of consciousness

        swollen glands

        unusual bleeding or bruising

        unusual tiredness or weakness

        Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

        Symptoms of overdose

        Bigger, dilated, or enlarged pupils (black part of the eye)

        blurred vision

        change in consciousness

        confusion as to time, place, or person

        difficult or troubled breathing

        false or unusual sense of well-being

        hallucinations

        headache

        holding false beliefs that cannot be changed by fact

        inability to move the eyes

        increased blinking or spasms of the eyelid

        increased sensitivity of the eyes to light

        irregular, fast or slow, or shallow breathing

        loss of consciousness

        muscle stiffness or tightness

        pale or blue lips, fingernails, or skin

        sticking out of the tongue

        trouble with breathing, speaking, or swallowing

        uncontrolled eye movements

        uncontrolled twisting movements of the neck, trunk, arms, or legs

        unusual excitement, nervousness, or restlessness

        unusual facial expressions

        weakness of the arms and legs

        Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

        More common

        Drowsiness

        Incidence not known

        Anxiety

        deep or fast breathing with dizziness

        dry mouth

        face is warm or hot to touch

        fainting feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

        heartburn

        irritability

        nausea

        nervousness

        numbness of the feet, hands, and around the mouth

        pain or discomfort in the chest, upper stomach, or throat

        redness to face

        restlessness

        sensation of spinning

        shakiness and unsteady walk

        sleeplessness

        trouble sleeping

        unable to sleep

        unsteadiness, trembling, or other problems with muscle control or coordination

        vomiting

        Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

        Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

        pros-and-cons

        Pros and cons of Carisoprodol (Soma)

        thumbs-up

        Pros

        Works quickly (generally within 30 minutes) to relieve muscle pain and discomfort

        Available in two different strengths

        Available as a lower-cost generic

        thumbs-down

        Cons

        Not a first-choice option for muscle pain

        Typically taken four times daily

        Can be habit-forming

        Unknown if it's safe for people younger than age 16 or older than age 65

        pharmacist-tips

        Pharmacist tips for Carisoprodol (Soma)

        pharmacist

        • Carisoprodol (Soma) should only be used for a short period of time (up to 2 to 3 weeks). It's not meant to treat long-term pain. Ask a healthcare professional (HCP) about a better alternative for you if you have ongoing muscle spasms.

          • You can take carisoprodol (Soma) with or without food. Food won't affect how the medication works.

            • Carisoprodol (Soma) can affect your ability to focus and concentrate. Avoid driving or performing any activity that requires a lot of attention until you know how this medication affects you.

              • Side effects like dizziness and sleepiness are common. Don't drink alcohol while you're taking carisoprodol (Soma). Alcohol can make these side effects worse.

                • Tell your care team if you take other medications that cause dizziness or drowsiness, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or sleep aids. Carisoprodol (Soma) can cause extreme drowsiness or dangerous breathing problems when it's combined with these other medications.

                  • Also tell your care team and pharmacist about all the other medications that you take, including over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbals. Carisoprodol (Soma) interacts with several common medications, including omeprazole (Prilosec), aspirin, and St. John’s Wort. Your care team can check that carisoprodol (Soma) is safe to take with your other medications.

                    • If you've been taking carisoprodol (Soma) every day for a long period of time, don't stop taking it without talking to your prescriber first. This medication can cause withdrawal symptoms like hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't there), vomiting, and stomach cramps. Your prescriber will work with you to lower your dose safely over time before you can completely stop the medication.

                      • Store carisoprodol (Soma) up and away from children, pets, and visitors. Call a Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away or go to the emergency room if you or someone you know accidentally took carisoprodol (Soma).

                        faqs

                        Frequently asked questions about Carisoprodol (Soma)

                        Is carisoprodol (Soma) a narcotic?
                        Carisoprodol (Soma) isn't a narcotic medication because it isn't an opioid. Narcotic medications is another name for opioid pain relievers. But similar to an opioid, carisoprodol (Soma) is classified as a controlled substance because it can lead to dependence and has a risk for possible misuse.
                        How long do the effects of carisoprodol (Soma) last?
                        The muscle-relaxing and pain-relieving effects of carisoprodol (Soma) are relatively short-acting. They typically last about 4 to 6 hours each time you take carisoprodol (Soma).
                        Does carisoprodol (Soma) have a risk for addiction?
                        Yes, carisoprodol (Soma) has a risk for misuse, which can sometimes develop into addiction after repeated use. Work with your healthcare team to identify signs of substance use disorder and addiction. These signs can include a strong desire to take carisoprodol (Soma) even though there are serious and harmful consequences, giving it a higher priority than your everyday responsibilities, and sometimes physical withdrawal symptoms when you suddenly stop taking the medication. To lessen the risk of addiction, your prescriber will only recommend you use carisoprodol (Soma) for a short period of time (e.g., less than three weeks).
                        Does carisoprodol (Soma) kick in quickly?
                        Yes, you should begin to feel pain relief from carisoprodol (Soma) fairly quickly after you take it. Some people might start to feel pain relief within 30 minutes of taking the medication. Keep in mind that everyone responds to medications differently. Speak with your care team if you're concerned about how quickly carisoprodol (Soma) works to relieve your muscle pain.
                        Does carisoprodol (Soma) make you sleepy?
                        Drowsiness is the most common side effect of carisoprodol (Soma), with up to 17% of participants in a clinical study reporting that they felt sleepy at some point during treatment. Interestingly, the drowsiness wasn't bad enough to make participants want to stop taking carisoprodol (Soma) altogether; only about 2 to 5% of participants stopped taking it because of side effects. Avoid driving or doing any activities that require you to be awake and alert until you know how carisoprodol (Soma) affects you.
                        Can I drink alcohol with carisoprodol (Soma)?
                        No, you should avoid drinking alcohol with carisoprodol (Soma). This combination can slow down your brain activity and raise your risk for serious side effects, such as extreme sleepiness and trouble thinking clearly. In addition, some people have also had seizures when they drank alcohol and took carisoprodol (Soma). Speak with your care team about your drinking habits and whether carisoprodol (Soma) is an appropriate option for you. If you regularly drink alcohol, your care team can discuss with you about tips and resources to help you stop drinking.
                        Can I take carisoprodol (Soma) for chronic pain?
                        No, carisoprodol (Soma) isn't FDA-approved for chronic pain (pain that lasts for a longer period of time). This medication should only be taken for up to 2 to 3 weeks at a time. There isn't enough evidence that shows that carisoprodol (Soma) will continue to work well if you take it for longer than 3 weeks. In addition, taking the medication for a longer period of time puts you at higher risk for certain side effects, like drowsiness, trouble thinking or making decisions, and dependence. Ask your prescriber about alternative treatment options, including ones that don't require medication, if you have a condition that causes chronic muscle pain.
                        What are some other muscle relaxers I can take besides carisoprodol (Soma)?
                        There are several muscle relaxers currently available, and some of them have different conditions that they can treat. Metaxalone (Skelaxin) and cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) are both muscle relaxers that can treat similar conditions as carisoprodol (Soma). They're also meant for short-term treatment of muscle pain. But unlike carisoprodol (Soma), they're not habit-forming. Other muscle relaxers, such as tizanidine (Zanaflex) and baclofen, are more appropriate for muscle spasms from specific conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS) and they also won't cause dependence. Talk with your healthcare team about which muscle relaxer is best for you.
                        GoodRxEducationalIcon

                        How to save using GoodRx

                        Compare Prices
                        1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                        Select your free coupon
                        2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                        Show coupon to your pharmacist
                        3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                        Get free couponLearn more
                        dosage

                        Carisoprodol (Soma) dosage forms

                        The average cost for 60 tablets of 350mg of Carisoprodol (Soma) is $12.18 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 67.69% off the average retail price of $37.68.
                        tablet
                        Tablet
                        DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                        250mg30 tablets$27.59$0.92
                        350mg60 tablets$12.18$0.20

                        Typical dosing for Carisoprodol (Soma)

                        • Adults and children between the ages of 16 and 64 years old: The typical recommended dose is 250 mg to 350 mg by mouth three times a day and at bedtime for no more than 2 to 3 weeks.

                        More on Carisoprodol (Soma) dosage forms

                        Soma: soma dosage

                        Soma Dosages for Adults: Your GoodRx Guide

                        Written by Caleb Hoppe, PharmD
                        interactions

                        Interactions between Carisoprodol (Soma) and other drugs

                        Carisoprodol (Soma) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Carisoprodol (Soma). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                        More on Carisoprodol (Soma) interactions

                        Soma: drug interaction soma

                        7 Soma Interactions to Know About: Alcohol, Opioids, and More

                        Written by Austin Ulrich, PharmD, BCACP

                        Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                        drug-cost

                        How much does Carisoprodol (Soma) cost?

                        To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                        Soma (brand)
                        GoodRx lowest price

                        $12.18

                        (save 98.50%)
                        Carisoprodol (Soma) (generic)
                        GoodRx lowest price

                        $12.18

                        (save 67.69%)
                        View prices & coupons
                        contraindications-icon

                        Carisoprodol (Soma) contraindications

                        Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Carisoprodol (Soma) will not be safe for you to take.
                        alternatives

                        What are alternatives to Carisoprodol (Soma)?

                        There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Carisoprodol (Soma). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                        Carisoprodol (Soma)
                        Used for:

                        • Discomfort caused by painful muscle-related conditions (short-term only)

                        $12.18 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                        Cyclobenzaprine
                        Used for:

                        • Muscle discomfort caused by acute (not long-term) conditions

                        $6.54 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                        Metaxalone
                        Used for:

                        • Muscle discomfort caused by acute (not chronic) conditions when rest or physical therapy isn't enough for relief

                        $22.50 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                        images

                        Carisoprodol (Soma) images

                        White Round Sg 109 - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Sg 109".White Round Sg 109 - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        White Round 2410 V - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "2410 V".White Round 2410 V - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        White Round Op 35 - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Op 35".White Round Op 35 - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        White Round 446 - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "446".White Round 446 - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        White Round Cl 022 - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Cl 022".White Round Cl 022 - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        White Round D And 31 - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "31" And "D".White Round D And 31 - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        White Round O And 111 - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet
                        This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "111" And "O".White Round O And 111 - Carisoprodol 350mg Tablet

                        Get savings updates for Carisoprodol (Soma)

                        Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Carisoprodol (Soma) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                        By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                        References

                        Best studies we found

                        Chartwell RX, LLC. (2023). Carisoprodol tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                        Conermann, T., et al. (2023). Carisoprodol. StatPearls.

                        Lewandowski, T.A. (2016). Pharmacokinetic modeling of carisoprodol and meprobamate disposition in adults. Human & Experimental Toxicology.

                        View All References (5)

                        MedlinePlus. (2023). Pain medications - narcotics.

                        MedlinePlus. (2023). Prescription drug misuse.

                        National Center for Complementary for Integrative Health. (2020). St. John’s wort.

                        National Organization for Rare Disorders. (2022). Acute intermittent porphyria.

                        Qaseem, A., et al. (2020). Nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic management of acute pain from non–low back, musculoskeletal injuries in adults: A clinical guideline from the American College of Physicians and American Academy of Family Physicians. Annals of Internal Medicine.

                        GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                        Was this page helpful?

                        Compare other Musculoskeletal Conditions drugs

                        Carisoprodol vs CyclobenzaprineBaclofen vs MeloxicamBaclofen vs TizanidineCyclobenzaprine vs GabapentinCyclobenzaprine vs Meloxicam
                        View More

                        Browse medications

                        View All

                        Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.