Soma is a prescription medicine commonly known as carisoprodol by its generic name. This drug is a relaxing muscle and it works by blocking how the nerves and the brain send out pain signals. Soma is intended as a short-term procedure usually prescribed for a period of three weeks. Along with rest and physical therapy, Soma may be used as someone tries to overcome pain and discomfort. For more than a few weeks, the reason Soma shouldn't be used is because it has potential for abuse, addiction and dependence. The longer someone uses Soma, or the more likely they are to develop an addiction or dependence when someone uses it outside of how it's prescribed. For people with a history of a substance use disorder, the risk of requiring Soma rehabilitation or addiction treatment is greater.