Carisoprodol, sold under the brand name Soma, is a muscle relaxant that can be used for the treatment of muscle pain and spasms. [1] Due to carisoprodol’s habit-forming and addictive potential, it is classed as a controlled substance.
- Carisoprodol, or Soma, is a muscle relaxant drug that can be used for short-term treatment of muscle pains and spasms.
- Individuals can develop a dependence on carisoprodol due to its sedating and euphoric effects.
- Carisoprodol is a Schedule IV controlled substance, which means there are limitations on its prescribing and use.
-Controlled-Substance-Status.jpg?v=1766989655)
Is carisoprodol (Soma) a controlled substance?
Carisoprodol became a Schedule IV controlled substance in 2012 when the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reclassified it under the Controlled Substances Act. [2][3] The scheduling system ranks drugs from Schedule I (highest abuse potential) to Schedule V (lowest abuse potential). [4]
Carisoprodol shares its Schedule IV classification with other commonly prescribed medications such as Xanax, Valium, and tramadol. [4] Although Schedule IV is a relatively moderate level of control, this classification acknowledges carisoprodol's potential for abuse and dependence. This has resulted in stricter prescribing guidelines and monitoring compared to non-controlled medications.
Why was Carisoprodol classified as controlled?
This reclassification in 2012 was a result of growing concerns regarding carisoprodol abuse. [3] Although primarily prescribed as a muscle relaxant, carisoprodol can also cause sedating and euphoric effects that contribute to its recreational use. [5] The main metabolite of carisoprodol is meprobamate, which itself is also a Schedule IV controlled substance, highlighting the need for carisoprodol to be controlled similarly. [3]
Research has found carisoprodol to be one of the most abused prescription medications in the U.S., and there have been fatalities linked to overdose. [6] Since its classification, there has been a decline in carisoprodol prescribing, making it more difficult to obtain. [3]
Risks of carisoprodol misuse
Carisoprodol’s sedating and euphoric effects make it a high-risk substance for developing addiction and dependence. [6] Consequently, carisoprodol should only be used for a maximum of three weeks to treat acute musculoskeletal problems, like strains or spasms, as long-term use of carisoprodol increases the risk of dependence. [7] Carisoprodol is also linked to several serious side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, and seizures. [8]
Legal and prescription implications
Since carisoprodol's Schedule IV classification, healthcare providers must follow stricter prescribing protocols when dispensing it. Prescriptions for carisoprodol cannot be filled more than six months after the prescription date, and they cannot be refilled more than five times in six months. [9] This means prescriptions have to be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure they’re still necessary.
Possession of carisoprodol without a valid prescription is illegal and can result in criminal charges. Additionally, medical professionals who prescribe carisoprodol inappropriately or outside accepted medical guidelines may face disciplinary or legal action.
Safe use within a regulatory framework
To minimize risks associated with carisoprodol use, patients should strictly follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment. The medication should never be shared with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Healthcare providers are encouraged to conduct thorough patient assessments before prescribing carisoprodol, including potential risk factors for substance abuse. Carisoprodol should not be prescribed unless the healthcare professional feels the benefits significantly outweigh the potential risks.
When to seek help
It’s never too early to seek professional help if you think you are misusing carisoprodol. If you don’t feel ready to speak to a professional yet, try reaching out to a trusted family member or friend. This is especially important if you have withdrawal symptoms when you don’t take carisoprodol, or if you find it difficult to function without it. These are both signs of carisoprodol dependence.
It’s important to know that there are several treatment options available for carisoprodol addiction. This includes a combination of medically supervised detoxification, counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and support groups to help address the underlying factors contributing to carisoprodol abuse.
