Baclofen
MUSCLE RELAXANTUses of Baclofen
- Baclofen is used to treat pain and certain types of spasticity (muscle stiffness and tightness) from multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, or other spinal cord diseases.
- It is a skeletal muscle relaxant that helps manage spasticity and associated pain in conditions like multiple sclerosis, spinal cord disease, cerebrovascular accidents, cerebral palsy, and meningitis. Baclofen works by acting on the spinal cord nerves to reduce the number and severity of muscle spasms.
Side effects of Baclofen
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Weakness
How Baclofen works
- Baclofen is a skeletal muscle relaxant.
- It is a GABA agonist (GABAB receptors) that acts by modulating nerve signals in the central nervous system by enhancing the action of the neurotransmitter GABA which inhibits the release and action of excitatory neurotransmitters.
- This results in reduced nerve activity, leading to muscle relaxation.
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Written By
B. Pharm
Reviewed By
B. Pharm, MSc.
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
- Baclofen is available orally (tablet, granules, liquid and suspension).
Age And Dose Restrictions
- It can be used for adults and children with appropriate dose adjustments, with special caution for children <12 years of age.
Contraindications
- It is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to baclofen.
Medications To Avoid With This Drug
- Do not take central nervous system (CNS) depressants (sedatives, sleeping pills, or tranquilizers), antidepressants, and antianxiety mdications with Baclofen.
Overdose And Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose of Baclofen, take it as soon as you remember. But, if the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing regime.
Management Of Side Effects
- To avoid falls and injuries, sit down or lie down as soon as you feel dizzy. move carefully, when rising from a sitting or sleeping posture.
Use In Driving And Operating Machinery
- Baclofen causes significant drowsiness, so any activity that require increased focus and alertness like driving or operating machinery should be avoided while taking this medication.
Use In Pregnancy And Lactation
- Caution is advised for use of Baclofen in pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Caution In Other Conditions
- Caution is advised in elderly patients.
- Baclofen should also be cautiously used by patients with kidney disease, epilepsy, stroke, rheumatic disease, cerebral palsy (neurological disorder), Parkinson's disease, and a psychiatric condition such as schizophrenia or a confusional state.
Special Dietary And Lifestyle Recommendation
- It's advisable to avoid alcohol consumption while on Baclofen, as it may increase the side effects of the medication.
- Do not abruptly discontinue taking Baclofen, as it can result in withdrawal symptoms or adverse effects. Your doctor will recommend the dose adjustment.
- Take precautions to avoid overexertion and activities that may lead to muscle fatigue.
Frequently asked questions
1. How can I manage the side effects of Baclofen?
Taking Baclofen close to bedtime can help you get past the drowsiness during sleep time and avoid errors in tasks requiring alertness.
2. How much time does Baclofen take to work?
The onset of Baclofen's effects varies but is generally within 1 to 2 hours after taking the medication, with peak effectiveness occurring within 4 to 6 hours. However, individual responses may differ.
3. Can I drive or operate heavy machinery while on Baclofen?
It is recommended to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while on Baclofen as it has been reported to cause drowsiness, dizziness and weakness.
4. Should I stop taking Baclofen if I feel good?
No, you should not stop taking Baclofen without consulting your doctor, even if you feel good, as abrupt discontinuation may lead to withdrawal symptoms or a return of muscle spasticity.
5. Is Baclofen a habit-forming medicine?
Baclofen is not habit-forming and is generally safe when used as directed.
6. Does Baclofen affect fertility?
There is no well established evidence for the effect of Baclofen on fertility. If you are concerned about the effect of this medicine on fertility, consult your doctor for personalised advice.
7. Is Baclofen available over the counter, or do I need a prescription?
Baclofen usually requires a prescription and is not available over the counter.
8. What should I do if I miss a dose of Baclofen?
If you miss a dose of Baclofen, take it as soon as you remember, but do not double the next dose.
Baclofen in other salts
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