A muscle relaxant used to relieve the pain of specific muscle injuries. Carisoprodol (Soma) is prescribed for the pain and discomfort associated with sprains, spasms, strains, and other muscle injuries. The medication does not relax muscles directly, but relieves discomfort through a sedative effect that can cause drowsiness and impair a person’s ability to drive.
An orange pigment found in plants that is converted to vitamin A by the liver, lungs, and intestines. Orange fruits and vegetables such as cantaloupe, papaya, carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin are rich in carotene. This substance is also found in dark green, leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale. Vitamin A is essential for growth and development and helps maintain healthy eyes, skin, and mucous membranes and normal bone structure. Carotene is an antioxidant chemical that may prevent damaging changes in cells. Studies are ongoing to find out whether antioxidants help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.
A drug with muscle-relaxant, analgesic, and tranquilizing action. It is used in the treatment of spastic conditions, such as parkinsonism, and for back pain, sprains, and other injuries. It is administered by mouth; there are few side-effects, but drowsiness or dizziness may occur.