Soma Side Effects

Generic name: carisoprodol

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

Note: This document provides detailed information about Soma Side Effects associated with carisoprodol. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Soma.

Applies to carisoprodol: oral tablet.

Common side effects of Soma

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:

More common side effects

• 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

Serious side effects of Soma

Along with its needed effects, carisoprodol (the active ingredient contained in Soma) 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:

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 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]

Frequently asked questions

• What is Caridoxen used for?

Further information

Soma 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