Compare Soma vs. Lioresal
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Carisoprodol (Soma) and Gablofen (baclofen) are both muscle relaxants, but they have different uses and methods of administration. Carisoprodol (Soma) is taken orally and is used for short-term relief of muscle pain and discomfort in people aged 16 to 64. It works by affecting nerve activity in the brain and spinal cord, but it can be habit-forming and is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and headaches. On the other hand, Gablofen (baclofen) is given as an intrathecal injection through an implantable pump and is used to treat severe spasticity in people who can't tolerate or don't get enough relief from oral baclofen. It is not a controlled substance and is typically used for long-term treatment. Gablofen's side effects include muscle weakness, sleepiness, and dizziness. Unlike Carisoprodol, Gablofen requires a surgical procedure to implant the pump and regular refills by a healthcare professional.
- Carisoprodol (Soma)Intrathecal baclofen (Lioresal)
- Carisoprodol (Soma)Intrathecal baclofen (Lioresal)
Summary of Soma vs. Lioresal
Summary for Muscle relaxantPrescription onlyCarisoprodol (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.
Summary for Muscle relaxantPrescription onlyIntrathecal baclofen (Lioresal) is a muscle relaxant. It's given to adults and children ages 4 years and older to treat severe spasticity caused by certain conditions, like spinal cord injuries, that can't be treated with oral baclofen. Intrathecal baclofen (Lioresal) is typically given as a continuous infusion through an implantable pump. But before you can undergo the procedure to receive the pump, your healthcare team will inject test doses of intrathecal baclofen (Lioresal) to see if it works for you. Some side effects of this medication include nausea, sleepiness, and dizziness.
Indications of Soma vs. Lioresal
Indications for•Discomfort caused by painful muscle-related conditions (short-term only)Indications for•Severe spasticity in people who are either having too many side effects from oral baclofen or who aren't getting enough symptom relief from itPros and Cons of Soma vs. Lioresal
Pros and Const for Muscle relaxantPros•Works quickly (generally within 30 minutes) to relieve muscle pain and discomfort•Available in two different strengths•Available as a lower-cost genericCons•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 65Pros and Const for Muscle relaxantPros•A possible option for those who can't take oral baclofen•Less side effects compared to oral baclofen•Infused through a pump, so don't need to remember to take medication by mouth daily•Might be an option for children as young as 4 years oldConsCommon Side Effects of Soma vs. Lioresal
Common Side Effects for•Drowsiness (13-17%)•Dizziness (7-8%)•Headache (3-5%)Common Side Effects for•Muscle weakness (up to 35%)•Sleepiness (up to 21%)•Headache (up to 11%)•Nausea and vomiting (up to 11%)•Convulsions (up to 10%)•Dizziness (8%)•"Pins and needles" feeling in arms and legs (up to 7%)•Stiff muscles (up to 6%)•Constipation (up to 5%)Warnings of Soma vs. Lioresal
Common Side Effects for•Extreme sleepiness and trouble with concentration•Risk for misuse, dependence, and withdrawal•SeizuresCommon Side Effects for•Withdrawal when stopping intrathecal baclofen (Lioresal) suddenly•Intrathecal baclofen overdose•Worsening of other health conditions•Extreme sleepiness or dizziness•Ovarian cystsPrices with our coupons for Soma vs. Lioresal
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