Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Carisoprodol as follows:
- Do not take carisoprodol, if you ever manifested any allergic responses to intake of carisoprodol or any other medications belonging to the group of skeletal muscle relaxants, such as, methocarbamol and baclofen. In the event of an allergic response with any of these medications, check with your physician regarding your safety with intake of carisoprodol.
- Carisoprodol has strong potential for addiction, especially after prolonged use and/or in individuals with history of substance/drug abuse. Carisoprodol is metabolized by the liver to active products that have a strong abuse potential. This makes carisoprodol a risky drug and so, must be avoided for a safer alternative in individuals with history of drug abuse.
- Carisoprodol can start acting very quickly in a span of 30 minutes and induce severe dizziness and make one drowsy. Do not take carisoprodol along with alcohol, opioid pain medications, such as, hydrocodone and codeine, antipsychotic medications, antidepressant medications, anti-seizure medications, muscle relaxants, antihistamines, OTC cough syrups, and any other medications that carry a risk for depression of the central nervous system, resulting in episodes of dizziness and confusion. The individual influence of these medications on respirations and central nervous system can get added up, thus leading to severe respiratory depression, confusion, coma, and can even be fatal. Avoid taking any other medications with potential to cause drowsiness along with carisoprodol at the same time.
- Carisoprodol could interact with a number of other medications and can precipitate serious reactions. If you are being newly started on carisoprodol, discuss with your physician regarding all other medications you are currently taking and their safety with carisoprodol. Also, if you have been taking carisoprodol for long, discuss with your physician regarding your history of carisoprodol intake, when you are being started on any new medication.
