Is Soma addictive?

The short answer is yes, Soma can be addictive. Learn who gets addicted to Soma and how to recognize proper use from abuse here.

3
minute read

Street names for Soma

Ds
Dance
Las Vegas Cocktail (Soma + Vicodin)
Soma Coma (Soma + codeine)

What is Soma used for?

Soma is the brand name for the prescription drug carisoprodol. Doctors prescribe Soma as a muscle relaxant to relieve pain from muscle injuries and spasms. However, some people take Soma for (illegal) non-medical reasons to achieve effects such as:

* drowsiness
* euphoria
* giddiness
* relaxation

Is Soma addictive?

Yes, Soma can be addictive over time and doctors recommend that patients not take Soma for more than two to three weeks.

Phamacologists believe that physical dependence on Soma is due to the fact that Soma metabolizes into a drug called meprobamate, which is a minor tranquilizer used to treat anxiety, tension, and muscle spasms. Meprobamate is classified by the DEA as a Schedule IV drug because it may cause dependence. However, the FDA says about Soma that people report Soma dependence, Soma withdrawal symptoms, and abuse of the prescription drug Soma after prolonged use. And that excessive use of Soma can result in psychological and physical dependence.

Who becomes addicted to Soma?

Most cases of dependence on Soma, withdrawal, and abuse of Soma seem to happen among people already diagnosed with addiction or among people who combine Soma with other drugs with abuse potential (Ex. Vicodin or codeine).

Am I addicted to Soma?

You must really take a look at how you are using and thinking about Soma to know whether or not you are addicted to the drug. There are two types of dependence upon drugs. Dependence can be either

1. Physical

2. Psychological

Are you physically dependent on Soma?

Physical dependence to any type of drug does not necessarily indicate addiction. This is true for Soma. You will know if you are physically dependent on Soma if you experience withdrawal symptoms once you stop taking the drug. Soma withdrawal symptoms include:

* abdominal cramps
* headache
* insomnia
* nausea

The intensity and duration of Soma withdrawal is related to the dose and administration route, frequency and duration of use (and whether or not combined with other drugs), as well as the age, sex, health, and genetic makeup of the user. Physical dependence on prescription drugs like Soma often disappear within days or weeks after drug use stops. But if psychological dependence occurs after physical dependence ends, a diagnosis of addiction is possible.

Are you psychologically dependent on Soma

Psychological dependence on Soma develops when a person “needs” or “craves” it in order to carry on their lives. People addicted to Soma feel that they cannot function without it and spend a great deal of time finding and using Soma. For a Soma addict, taking Soma is the most important activity in life. Psychological dependence is also characterized by a loss of control regarding drug use, and taking Soma despite serious medical and/or social consequences.

What can I do to avoid Soma addiction?

To reduce the chance of Soma (carisoprodol) dependence, withdrawal, or abuse, be sure to take Soma as prescribed. Report any misuse to your doctor (tell on yourself) and avoid taking Soma altogether if you have already been diagnosed with addiction or if you are taking other CNS depressants. Honesty is the best policy, so if you are worried that you may have developed Soma addiction…please let someone know. Feel free to leave your comments or questions below.

Reference sources: http://www.justice.gov/dea/concern/m.html
Information about Soma from the DOJ
About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
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