Carisoprodol is a muscle relaxer that works by blocking pain sensations. Learn about side effects, interactions and indications. Soma (carisoprodol) is used treat injuries and other painful muscle conditions. Includes Soma side effects, interactions and indications Carisoprodol, sold under the brand name Soma among others, is an oral medication used for musculoskeletal pain. [8] Effects generally begin within half an hour and last up to six hours. [8] Common side effects include headache, dizziness, and sleepiness. [8] Serious side effects may include addiction, allergic reactions, and seizures. [8] In people with a sulfa allergy certain formulations may. Carisoprodol (Soma) is a controlled substance, which means that it's more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time. Soma, a trade name for prescription drug carisoprodol, is a muscle relaxant legitimately prescribed to relieve pain from muscle injuries and spasms. When taken in dosages exceeding those recommended by physicians, Soma causes drowsiness, giddiness, and relaxation. Soma is a fictional drug in Aldous Huxley 's 1932 dystopian sci-fi novel Brave New World. In the novel, soma is an opiate of the masses that replaces religion and alcohol in a peaceful, but amoral, high-tech society far in the future. Soma is a sedative drug that doctors prescribe for musculoskeletal pain. Some people use soma recreationally. Read about soma's uses, effects, and drug interactions. Find patient medical information for Carisoprodol (Soma) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Soma (Carisoprodol) may treat musculoskeletal pain. Learn about side effects, dosage, drug interactions, warnings, patient labeling, reviews, and related medications. Drug abuse or dependence, or history of—Use with caution. Dependence on carisoprodol may develop. Kidney disease or Liver disease—Use with caution. The effects may be increased because of slower removal of the medicine from the body. Porphyria (an enzyme problem), history of—Should not be used in patients with this condition.