Switching from soma (carisoprodol) muscle relaxer to what? haven't found any, so far, that works like it in my past. what's the closest alternative(s)?

Hard to know: It is difficult to answer your question without knowing why you are taking the drug, how long you have been taking it, your dose and the reason for change. Soma (carisoprodol) is an old drug that does have a dependency potential. Also need to know what other meds you have tried.

Hard to say: Presently there is no pharmacogenetic testing that will tell doctors which medication will work for you and which won't ... so, unfortunately, there is a trial and error that goes on. You should review with your doctor alternative, those include baclofen, cyclobenzaprine, tizanidine, benzodiazepines, metaxalone, ophenadrine, methocarbamol. Though, you may not be a good candidate for some.