Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking soma as follows:
- Porphyrins are compounds essential for synthesis of heme in the body. Heme is the iron containing and oxygen transporting unit of red blood cells that delivers oxygen to all the body tissues. Any irregularities or deficiencies in the pathway of heme synthesis can lead to accumulation of porphyrin molecules in the body leading to condition called porphyria. Individuals with porphyria due to reduced heme synthesis can present with signs and symptoms of poor oxygenation in various body tissues. Body tissues, such as, heart, lungs, muscle, brain, and intestines are highly oxygen dependent and poor oxygen delivery to these tissues can lead to symptoms of organ compromise. Individuals with porphyria can present with symptoms such as, abdominal pain, chest pain, muscle pain in the extremities & body aches, compromised endurance, shortness of breath even on mild exertion, episodes of confusion & disorientation, seizures, rapid and irregular heartbeat. Soma intake can result in increased risk for acute episodes of porphyria in individuals with history. In individuals with history of porphyria, soma must either be avoided for a better alternative or used with extra caution and close follow-up for any development/worsening of above mentioned symptoms of poor tissue oxygenation. Discuss with your physician regarding your history of porphyria, if any, to double-check regarding your safety with intake of soma.
- Soma use, especially in individuals with seizure history, can occasionally result in deterioration of seizure control and fresh episodes of seizures. So, soma could be avoided for a safer alternative in individuals with history of poorly controlled seizures. Discuss with your physician regarding your history of seizures, if any, to be certain regarding your safety with intake of soma.
- Soma could potentially interact with a lot of other medications and precipitate serious reactions. If you are being newly started on soma, discuss with your physician regarding all your current medications and their safety with soma. Also, notify your physician regarding any current soma intake, if you are being started on any new medications and discuss their safety with soma.
