Research and analysis

Carisoprodol: review of the evidence on its use and harms

This report considers the use, harms and control of carisoprodol, a muscle relaxant previously prescribed in the UK to treat muscle spasms.

• From: Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs
• Published: 6 November 2025

Documents

ACMD report – a review of the evidence on the use and harms of carisoprodol (accessible)

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ACMD report – a review of the evidence on the use and harms of carisoprodol

PDF, 351 KB, 29 pages

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Cover letter: review of the evidence on the use and harms of carisoprodol (accessible)

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Cover letter: review of the evidence on the use and harms of carisoprodol

PDF, 141 KB, 4 pages

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Details

After reviewing the evidence, the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) recommends:

• making carisoprodol a Class C drug
• testing for carisoprodol and its metabolite in all overdose cases
• creating resources for health professionals about the dangers of carisoprodol
• providing clear information to the public about the risks of carisoprodol, including addiction and overdose

Published 6 November 2025