CARISOPRODOL ABUSE - A REPORT FROM INDIA

Carisoprodol, a centrally acting muscle relaxant, has recently been no ticed to be abused. A series of 16 cases with carisoprodol abuse or de pendence is described. Carisoprodol was started by the majority of pat ients as a substitute for opiates, although its independent distinct e ffects, similar to the features of hypomania, were recognized and desc ribed by most users. The drug is currently available freely over the c ounter and is a much cheaper substitute for the legally prohibited ''h arder'' drugs. Unless awareness spreads and cautionary measures are ta ken, carisoprodol abuse might become a great menace in the near future .