Carisoprodol is indicated for the relief of discomfort associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions. Carisoprodol is known to be metabolized to meprobamate and hydroxy-meprobamate. In 2008, over 10 million prescriptions for carisoprodol were dispensed. Carisoprodol and meprobamate are among the 10 most frequently identified drugs in drug-impaired driving cases.
Administration: Round white tablets available in 250 mg and 350 mg strengths.
Elimination: The major pathway of carisoprodol metabolism is via the liver by cytochrome enzyme CYP2C19 to form meprobamate. This enzyme exhibits genetic polymorphism. Patients who are poor CYP2C19 metabolizers have a 4-fold increase in exposure to carisoprodol, and concomitant 50% reduced exposure to meprobamate compared to normal CYP2C19 metabolizers. The prevalence of poor metabolizers in Caucasians and African Americans is approximately 3-5% and in Asians is approximately 15-20%.
Abuse Potential: Carisoprodol is prone to drug dependence, withdrawal, and abuse. Carisoprodol is approved only for short-term use (for a maximum of two or three weeks). Taking it for longer periods of time could increase the risk of dependency and possibly abuse.
Storage Temp: 2-8°C