Baclofen

Generic name

• Baclofen.

Brand name

• Lioresal, Kemstro.

General Information

Baclofen is a muscle relaxant and an antispastic agent. It relieves the spasms, cramping, and tightness of muscles caused by medical problems such as multiple sclerosis or certain injuries to the spine. Baclofen can also be used to treat hiccups. Baclofen can be administered either orally or intrathecally (directly into the spinal fluid). Intrathecal administration is often indicated in spasticity patients, as very little of the oral dose actually reaches the spinal fluid. The exact way that baclofen works is unknown. It is available in tablet, oral liquid and injection form. It is slightly soluble in water, very slightly soluble in methanol, and insoluble in chloroform. Baclofen affects the spinal cord, which is the main connection between the brain and the rest of the body. Symptoms of baclofen underdose (via intrathecal delivery) include itching, hypotension, paresthesias, fever, and altered mental state. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it is within about 1 hour of that scheduled dose. The drug is rapidly absorbed after oral administration and is widely distributed throughout the body. Biotransformation is low and the drug is predominantly excreted in the unchanged form by the kidneys.

Baclofen Dosage

• The dose of baclofen will be different for different patients.
• Start therapy at a low dosage and increase gradually until optimum effect is achieved (usually between 40-80 mg daily).
• Children-Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Side Effects of Baclofen

The following side effects of Baclofen may includes:

• Bloody or dark urine.
• Headache.
• Increased urinary frequency.
• Vomiting.
• Weakness and stuffy nose.
• Blurred vision.
• Shortness of breath.

Warnings and precautions before taking Baclofen

• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
• Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how baclofen affects you.
• Do not stop taking baclofen suddenly. Stopping suddenly could cause seizures or hallucinations. Talk to your doctor first if you need to stop taking this medication.
• Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease, epilepsy, ulcers, a stroke, a rheumatic disease, cerebral palsy, Parkinson's disease, or a psychiatric condition.
• Do not take a double dose of this medication.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking baclofen, call your doctor immediately.

Overdosage

• After taking Baclofen, If you feel that overdose is suspected, then contact with your doctor immediately.
• Symptoms of a baclofen overdose include vomiting, weakness, drowsiness, slow breathing, seizures, unusual pupil size, and coma.
• In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

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