Soma Constipation- Do Muscle Relaxers Cause Constipation?

 

Can Soma cause constipation? is a quotidian question often wondered by avid muscle relaxer users. Even though constipation is not associated with chronic health issues, it may develop hemorrhoids and bowel incontinence in the long run. 

The prevalent use of the Soma pill (872202 prescriptions in 2019) has resulted in a few cases of Gastrointestinal adverse effects, making most people wonder about Soma constipation [1]. 

This comprehensive blog overviews whether and why muscle relaxers cause constipation and explore ways to manage and overcome it.

 

Soma Pill And Constipation- An Overview

Soma pill is the brand name of Carisoprodol, a non-controlled centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant that is prescribed for short-term acute pain. The Therapeutic use of Carisoprodol is also seen to manage signs of anxiety, migraine, fibromyalgia, and back pain. 

So, If you are interested in exploring the potential pain management benefits of Carisoprodol, we suggest considering the option of ordering affordable Soma pills with discreet shipping from Healthnaturo. 

Constipation is a condition that causes bowel movements to become less frequent. It is often characterized by less than three bowel movements in a week and results from inadequate intake of fiber or a change in the diet. 

Studies show that about 2.5 million people in the United States visit a doctor due to constipation [2]. 

 

Does Soma Cause Constipation?

A definitive answer to if muscle relaxers or Soma pill cause constipation can be challenging. It is not a prevalent adverse effect of muscle relaxers and may or may not occur after its administration. 

Soma constipation is not one of its eminent adverse effects. A few reputable and trusted websites list severe constipation and stomach cramps with the Soma pill, whereas others indicate the possibility of diarrhea from Carisoprodol use [4,5].

Anecdotal experiences also report cases of both constipation and diarrhea from Soma administration. So, let us have an overview of how Soma causes constipation. 

 

How Does Soma (Carisoprodol) Cause Constipation?

The Soma pill is formulated with numerous compounds that react differently in the body. The factors that contribute to Soma constipation are listed below. 

Due To The Presence Of Aspirin In The Formulation Of Soma Pill

A study evaluating the potential risk factors for chronic constipation identified its association with aspirin, which is also present in the formulation of the Soma pill [6]. thus causing Soma constipation in a few users. 

The Anticholinergic Activity Of Carisoprodol

Carisoprodol, the active compound of the Soma pill, has a weak anticholinergic property [7]. These relax the smooth muscle in the gut and blood vessels resulting in constipation [8]. 

 

Soma And Constipation - A Phase IV Clinical Study Of FDA Data

A phase IV clinical study reported by the website eHealthMe suggests that as of 27th May 2023, 558 people (3.65%) reported having Constipation from the Soma pill [18]. 

 

Can Muscle Relaxers Cause Constipation- A Evaluation Of Robaxin And Flexeril Constipation

Similar to the Soma pill, Muscle relaxer constipation is not a generalized adverse effect and may not occur in everyone. 

Each muscle relaxer is formulated differently with dissimilar bioavailability (the drug's ability to be absorbed) in the human body. 

Muscle relaxers such as Flexeril and Soma pills may cause constipation; in comparison, Robaxin is reported to cause stomach upset and diarrhea.  

Since we have already evaluated the possibility of Soma constipation, we here list the possibility of constipation with Flexeril and Robaxin. 

Does Flexeril Make You Constipated?

Several studies suggest constipation as one of the most commonly reported adverse effects of Flexeril. 

Constipation associated with Cyclobenzaprine has been reported by a 48-year-old woman receiving 10mg of Flexeril three times daily [16]. Similar results were also seen in another study by Arnold J. Weil, assessing the efficacy and tolerability of cyclobenzaprine in 504 patients [17].

Flexeril (Cyclobenzaprine) is structurally and pharmacologically related to tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). They affect the central nervous system and have an anticholinergic property causing constipation, dry mouth, and urinary retention [10]. 

Does Robaxin Cause Constipation? 

Methocarbamol, the active compound of Robaxin, is stated to cause bloating and constipation in a few users and websites. In contrast, others report that the muscle relaxer is not associated with either diarrhea or constipation [11,12].

 

How To Identify Constipation Caused By Soma?

 

The following symptoms can identify soma constipation or muscle relaxer constipation-

• Difficult and painful bowel movements after administering the Soma pill. 

• The feeling of being unable to clear the entire bowel

• Other Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and bloating. 

• If you get three or fewer bowel movements during Carisoprodol treatment. 

• Experiencing hard and dry stools after administration of Soma pain medication. 

 

Complications And Risk Factors Associated With Soma Constipation

Constipation, in general, rarely causes complications; however, people with long-term constipation may have a few health issues. 

The risk factors that are associated with Soma Constipation are mentioned below. 

• Swollen veins in the rectum are also called hemorrhoids. 

• Possibility of tears in the lining of the anus. 

• Piling up of stool in the anus or rectum. 

• Damage to the pelvic floor muscle due to the strain exerted during bowel movements. 

So who is at Risk? 

People who are at a higher risk of experiencing Soma constipation are-

• Older adults due to changes in digestive function.

• Individuals with a history of constipation or gastrointestinal issues may be at higher risk.

• People with weaker metabolisms 

• People with  Poor dietary habits, lack of physical activity, and inadequate fluid intake are more likely to suffer from Soma constipation. 

 

Guidelines On How To Use Soma Responsibly

Using Soma (carisoprodol) responsibly is crucial to preventing constipation and other potential side effects. Here are some guidelines to help you use Soma responsibly and minimize the risk of constipation- 

• Follow the prescribed dosage: Beginners are recommended to start with a lower dose of Carisoprodol, such as Soma 350 mg. Do not increase the dosage or take it more frequently than instructed. As taking a higher dose of Carisoprodol may increase the concentration of aspirin, thus elevating the likelihood of constipation.

• Short-term use: Soma is typically prescribed for three weeks. Prolonged use can increase the risk of developing tolerance, dependence, and constipation. 

• Avoid alcohol and other sedatives: Combining Soma with alcohol or other sedative drugs can enhance its effects and increase the risk of constipation. 

Alcohol can reduce the secretion of the antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which is responsible for holding water in the body. It may result in dehydration, thus increasing the risk of constipation if taken with the Soma pill. 

 

Do Muscle Relaxers Cause Constipation Or Diarrhea?

Along with their potency to cause Constipation, clinical studies suggest the possibility of diarrhea from muscle relaxers. Approximately 1 to 3% of volunteers in a survey of 437 patients treated with Flexeril 10mg reported gastrointestinal issues, including pain, diarrhea, gastritis, and vomiting [4]. 

Another study investigating Carisoprodol withdrawal associated with abrupt discontinuation of the muscle relaxer reports the occurrence of diarrhea along with other symptoms such as headache, stomach cramps, disorientation, and palpitation [13]. Thus, the possibility of getting diarrhea from muscle relaxers cannot be completely dismissed. 

The chances of getting gastrointestinal issues or diarrhea from Soma pills depend on the following two key factors.

Formulation Of Soma Pill With Magnesium Stearate

It is an inactive compound present in the formulation of the Soma pill. The presence of Magnesium Stearate in excessive amounts can act as a laxative and also affect the mucus lining of the bowel resulting in diarrhea. 

High Levels Of Serotonin

A study indicates an elevated level of serotonin in the central nervous system resulting from Carisoprodol intoxication. Such high serotonin levels can result in nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting [9,5].  

 

Can Muscle Relaxers Cause Loss Of Bowel Control?

Muscle relaxants can influence the regulation of the bladder and cause loss of bowel function.

Muscle relaxants work by promoting the relaxation of muscles in the body. Thus, it also affects the muscles responsible for maintaining bowel control. This can therefore lead to issues like diarrhea or incontinence in some individuals. 

 

Do Muscle Relaxers Help Constipation?

Smooth muscle relaxers are often prescribed to treat intestinal cramping, bouts of diarrhea, and abdominal pain associated with Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) [3]. They act by directly affecting the intestinal smooth muscle, helping to achieve relief from stomach discomfort. Thus, people with compromised metabolism or gastrointestinal diseases should not purchase soma online without a prior prescription. 

 

How To Manage Constipation Caused By Soma?

Muscle relaxer constipation is not severe and usually lasts until the analgesic is eliminated from the system. Muscle relaxers such as the Soma pill stay in the system for 24 hours, whereas other muscle relaxers such as Robaxin and Flexeril stay in the blood for 2 to 3 days. 

The following tips can help you improve muscle relaxer constipation.

• Staying hydrated is essential.

• Consume foods rich in fiber. 

• Exercise and stay active 

• Eat foods rich in probiotics 

Can You Take A Laxative With A Muscle Relaxer?

We do not advise using laxative medications, as they might possibly interact with muscle relaxers and develop adverse effects. However, you may try natural laxatives such as flax seeds, chia seeds, coconut water, and aloe vera.

 

Soma Constipation - Our Final Verdict 

Before we conclude, we break down the answer to your question, Do muscle relaxers cause constipation? to help you get a final overview of the subject. 

• The pharmacokinetic properties contributing to Soma constipation are due to its Anticholinergic Activity and the presence of aspirin in the formulation. In contrast, Magnesium Stearate and a higher level of Serotonin can induce diarrhea in users. 

• The occurrence of constipation due to muscle relaxers is more prevalent among elderly people and individuals with compromised metabolism. 

• The possibility of diarrhea from muscle relaxers cannot be dismissed and is observed to occur in 3% of the population taking a muscle relaxer. 

• Signs of muscle relaxer constipation include painful bowel movements, nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of incomplete stool passage. 

• Certain lifestyle modifications, such as proper hydration, eating a balanced diet with a higher level of fiber, and taking probiotics, can help improve the condition. 

An overview of the possible muscle relaxer constipation of a few popular analgesics.