USES: Soma (Carisoprodol) is used with rest and physical therapy to treat acute, painful muscle conditions.

HOW TO USE: How much Soma medicine you take and how often depends on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Soma, talk with your health care provider.

SIDE EFFECTS: Inform your doctor if you develop: muscle stiffness, skin rash, itching, rapid heart rate, swelling of the face, difficulty urinating. When rising quickly from a sitting or lying position, dizziness or lightheadedness may occur. Change positions slowly and use caution on stairs. Avoid activities requiring alertness if dizziness or drowsiness occurs. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medications you take, especially of: cimetidine, antidepressants, sedatives, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, narcotic pain medication (e.g., codeine), anti-allergy drugs, drugs used for asthma, cough-and-cold medicines. Alcohol adds to the dizziness and drowsiness caused by cyclobenzaprine. Limit alcohol intake. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using Soma (Carisoprodol), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding; if you are taking any prescription, nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement.

OVERDOSE: Call doctor or pharmacist immediately.

NOTES: Soma may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness,coordination, or physical dexterity.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.