Carisoprodol Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 14, 2025.

Applies to carisoprodol: oral tablet.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure this medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.

This medicine may cause some people to become dizzy, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally. Avoid driving, using machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants (medicines that make you drowsy or less alert). Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines or medicine for hay fever, allergies, or colds; sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping medicine; prescription pain medicine or narcotics; medicine for seizures or barbiturates; or anesthetics, including some dental anesthetics. Check with your medical doctor or dentist before taking any of the above while you are taking this medicine.

Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without first asking your doctor. You may need to slowly decrease your dose before stopping it completely.

If your condition does not improve within two to three weeks, or if it becomes worse, check with your doctor.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Common side effects of carisoprodol

Some side effects of carisoprodol 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:

Serious side effects of carisoprodol

Along with its needed effects, carisoprodol 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 while taking carisoprodol:

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

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

For healthcare professionals

Applies to carisoprodol: compounding powder, oral tablet.

General adverse events

The most commonly reported adverse reactions have included drowsiness, dizziness, and headache.^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Very common (10% or more): Drowsiness (17%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Dizziness, headache
• Postmarketing reports: Ataxia, tremor, seizures^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Postmarketing reports: Tachycardia, postural hypotension, syncope, facial flushing^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Postmarketing reports: Agitation, irritability, depressive reactions, insomnia^[Ref]

Other

• Postmarketing reports: Vertigo, dependence, withdrawal^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Postmarketing reports: Nausea, vomiting, epigastric discomfort^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Postmarketing reports: Leukopenia, pancytopenia^[Ref]

See also:

Frequently asked questions

• What is Caridoxen used for?

Further information

Carisoprodol side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer