Soma for Anxiety: Effectiveness and Considerations

 

Anxiety disorders affect millions; according to the World Health Organization (WHO), it affects about 4% of the world's population. Thus, the search for effective relief for anxiety is relentless. Among the widespread array of medications and treatments, a new candidate emerges: Soma, the brand drug of Carisoprodol. 

While traditionally prescribed as a muscle relaxant, its potential for managing anxiety has gained attention in the current times. But what exactly is Soma, and how does it help with anxiety? Join us as we get into the science, user reviews, and risk factors surrounding Soma's role in anxiety management.

 

Understanding Soma Pill And Anxiety 

Soma pill, the brand medicine for Carisoprodol, is a muscle relaxant that treats short-term acute pain. It is approved for treating short-term acute body pain associated with muscle spasms, sprains, injuries, and posture issues. 

Soma Pill works within 30 minutes and is an advanced lower back pain treatment. 

Anxiety is a mental health disorder that causes fear, alertness, and physical signs such as rapid heartbeat. It is normal to have anxiety at times; however, experiencing it regularly requires medical help. 

The symptoms of anxiety include:

• Dry Mouth

• Sweaty Hands

• Nausea

• Shortness Of Breath

• Feeling Panic

• Obsessive Thoughts

• Inability To Be Still And Calm

• Faster Heart Rate. 

 

Does Soma Help With Anxiety? 

Yes, the use of Soma pills can help with anxiety symptoms. However, its ability to manage anxiety is primarily due to its metabolite, Meprobamate. 

According to a paper published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI):  

“Meprobamate was approved for use in generalized anxiety disorders in the United States in 1955. It is currently rarely used and is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance because of its potential for abuse and dependency.” [1]

In an anxiety study, Meprobamate significantly improved the symptoms compared to other medications used [2]. 

While studies suggest using Soma pills for treating anxiety, their effectiveness may vary depending on the individual. 

 

How Fast Does Soma Work For Anxiety?

The Soma pill works within 30 minutes of intake. 

Its ability to improve signs of anxiety is attributed to the following pharmacological factors- 

Effecting GABA Neurotransmitter-

Carisoprodol increases the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitters in the brain. GABA helps produce a calming effect and controls signs of stress, anxiety, and fear [4]. 

Mimicking The Mechanism Of Benzodiazepines-

Soma pill further mimics the mechanism of benzodiazepines (commonly used to treat anxiety and stress). Therefore, using the Soma pill at a low to moderate dosage is clinically effective in reducing the signs of anxiety [5].

 

Benefits Of Taking Soma For Anxiety 

Let us look at how Soma pills can benefit patients with anxiety. 

Decrease In Muscle Tension- 

Muscle tension or tightness is often seen in people with anxiety [6]. Soma pill helps relax the muscles by inhibiting the interaction between nerve cells. 

Sedative And Relaxing Effect- 

Soma pills can result in sedation by targeting the central nervous system. It helps relax and calm the mind, thus improving the sign of anxiety.  

 

Is Soma Prescribed For Anxiety?

No, the Soma pill is not the first line of treatment for anxiety and is not typically prescribed for this condition. It is a muscle relaxant primarily used to treat musculoskeletal conditions such as muscle spasms and pain. 

It's essential to consult with a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment of anxiety disorders before taking the Soma pill. 

 

Contradiction

While some reports highlight the potential benefits of the Soma pill in managing anxiety, contrasting findings suggest a different perspective. Several clinical studies indicate a correlation between the use of Soma and increased levels of anxiety.

A phase IV clinical trial indicates that anxiety and stress are common in people who take the Soma pill for an extended period [9]. The graph below represents the number of people suffering from anxiety from taking Soma pain medication. 

 

 

Another clinical study suggests that taking 700 to 2100 mg of Carisoprodol per day for nine months caused anxiety [10]. The same report highlights a Soma withdrawal case in a 43-year-old man taking a dose of Soma 350mg. Within 48 hours of discontinuation, he developed signs of anxiety along with other withdrawal signs. 

The key factors to avoid anxiety issues from taking the Soma pill include- 

• Not taking Muscle relaxers for anxiety for over three to four times a day 

• Long-term use of the Soma pill (continuous use of more than three weeks). 

• Avoid mixing Soma with alcohol or other medications and treatments. 

 

Considerations When Using Soma for Anxiety

Muscle relaxers for anxiety should be taken only under the supervision of a physician. While administering the medication, the following factors should be considered. 

• Carisoprodol or Soma pill is an oral pill and should be swallowed.

• Breaking and crushing the pill is not recommended. 

• Avoid using other medication and alcohol while taking the muscle relaxer. 

• Do not take the Soma pill during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 

Safety and Risks

Using the Soma pill for anxiety can have significant health risks and is not recommended for several reasons:

Risk Of Abuse-

The ability of the Soma pill to manage anxiety was addressed as a key reason for abuse in a report by the World Health Organization (WHO). 

“The sedative effects of Carisoprodol may be sought by people seeking relief from    anxiety, leading to dose escalation and thereby escalating the risk of misuse.”

Apart from its use for managing anxiety, it is also commonly abused by taking it with other compounds for a sedative and euphoric effect. 

Drug Interaction-

The intake of the Soma pill, when taken with other medications, can result in drug interaction. Thus, do not take anxiety treatments with Soma pills. 

Tolerance-

Using the Soma pill for a longer period can develop tolerance to its effects. Such people require a higher dose to achieve the same level of relief. This can further increase the risk of dependence and overdose.

Overdose-

Taking a high dose of Soma can lead to overdose. It is characterized by symptoms such as extreme drowsiness, shallow breathing, slowed heartbeat, and confusion. 

 

Personal Experiences And Testimonials

User opinion on the use of Soma for anxiety can help us outline two basic factors on the non-prescription use of the muscle relaxer-

Soma pills can help manage the signs of anxiety. Users taking the muscle relaxer have experienced beneficial effects in improving restlessness, nervousness, and racing heartbeat and mind. 

A review by Anil on Drugs.com says, "If you are having muscle spasms due to injury, inflammation, or for any other reason, this is the right drug for you. It works... This also reduces anxiety... It works like a magic."

The drawback of using Soma for anxiety is that its effect does not last for too long, making it less effective for people with chronic anxiety issues. 

 

In some users, long-term use of the Soma pill can also result in withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety. 

Alternatives To Soma For Treating Anxiety

Although using Soma for anxiety symptoms shows a promising result, it is not a prescription anxiolytic (a drug class used for anxiety). So, here are a few alternatives to Carisoprodol-

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

SNRIs help ease moderate to severe signs of depression. They should, however, be taken after consulting a doctor. 

Ketamine (Eskatimine)

Ketamine may come in several forms, but the one approved by the FDA for depression is a nasal spray. These medications may take 4 to 8 weeks to show results and become fully effective. 

Benzodiazepines-

They are a potential option for helping people stay calm in tense situations. They function by increasing inhibitory GABA neurotransmission in the brain. 

Along with conventional anxiety drugs, countless natural remedies improve the condition. You can take them alongside your anxiety drugs for better results. Some simple but effective ways to manage signs of anxiety naturally include-

• Exercise

• Meditation

• Aromatherapy

• Chamomile tea

 

Can Soma Be Used For Anxiety- Our Final Verdict 

Yes, the use of Soma pills can help manage anxiety symptoms. It is significantly contributed by Meprobamate, the primary metabolite of Soma pill. Meprobamate is clinically proven to help manage the signs of anxiety that act on the Central Nervous System to induce a calming effect. However, using Carisoprodol for anxiety is an off-label benefit of the muscle relaxer, and the FDA does not approve its medical use.