Soma

The word "soma" is Greek, meaning "body." The American Heritage Dictionary defines soma as "the body of an individual as contrasted with the mind." A philosophical theory called Soma and Psyche explores the interrelatedness of body and mind. Soma yoga combines physical movements with deep mental relaxation.

Soma. It sounds ethereal, spiritual, even serene. Maybe that is the reason why the brand name of the prescription muscle relaxer Carisoprodol is called Soma; the name, as well as the medication, puts those in pain at ease. However, this Soma can be anything but serene if used as a recreational drug.

Street names/slang terms:
somas, DAN's, D's, Dance, DAN5513

Drug Type:
Carisoprodol (brand name: Soma) is a depressant; it is prescribed as a skeletal muscle relaxant to relieve pain from muscle injuries.

What does it look like?
Tablets in varying dosages.

How is it used?
Swallowed.

Short-term Effects:
• drowsiness
• extreme weakness
• headache
• increased heart rate
• dizziness
• fever
• burning in the eyes, temporary loss of vision
• clumsiness, confusion
• nausea, vomiting
• impaired mental and physical abilities
• difficulty breathing

Source: DEA, National Library of Medicine (National Institutes of Health)