Baclofen is a drug used to treat pain due to muscle stiffness from multiple sclerosis, such as spinal cord injury. This drug is included in the type of skeletal muscle relaxant drugs. Because, baclofen works on the spinal cord nerves and reduces the severity of muscle spasms, caused by multiple sclerosis or spinal cord disease.
Benefits of Baclofen
Baclofen is useful for treating several conditions, such as:
- Multiple sclerosis.
- Motor neuron disease.
- Cerebral palsy.
- Meningitis.
This medicine works by:
- Reduces muscle tension and stiffness.
- Reduces the severity and frequency of muscle spasms.
- Improve muscle movement.
- Reduce pain.
Baclofen Dosage
Baclofen is given orally in tablet or liquid form. The liquid form may be especially suitable for children or adults who have difficulty taking tablets. The dosage of treatment usually depends on the doctor’s assessment of the severity of the disease. Usually, the doctor will give the lowest dose that matches the body’s optimal response.
In adults, the dose is usually started at 15 mg daily, but divided into three times. If the doctor gives the maximum dose, then the therapeutic effect may or may not appear. This will determine the decision whether treatment with baclofen should be continued or stopped.
However, stopping treatment should not be sudden, but rather gradual. For example, by reducing the dose consecutively for 1 or 2 weeks. In terms of the dosage of drug use, it is best to follow the doctor’s advice to avoid unwanted side effects.
How to Use Baclofen
This medication is taken by mouth with or without food 3 times a day, but it is best to follow the instructions given by your doctor. To reduce side effects, your doctor will give you a low dose and gradually increase the dose. So follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
If you are using the liquid form of baclofen, measure the dose carefully using a measuring device or special spoon. Avoid using a tablespoon, as it may not be the correct size for the dose. If the liquid medicine is a suspension, shake the bottle well before taking it.
If you are using the capsule form of the medicine, shake the capsule gently before use. Open the capsule shell and put the contents into your mouth, then swallow. You can also mix the contents of the capsule with soft food or liquid, such as yogurt, pudding, or juice. After mixing, finish the food or drink within 2 hours.
The dosage given by your doctor is based on your medical condition and your body’s response to treatment. Never increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Use your medication regularly to get the most benefit.
If you suddenly stop using this medication, withdrawal symptoms (hallucinations and seizures) may occur. To prevent this, your doctor will slowly lower your dose. Side effects are more likely to occur if you have been using baclofen for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you experience any side effects. Also, tell them if your condition persists or worsens.
Baclofen Usage Caution
Baclofen is not right for everyone, as it can interact with certain medications or worsen existing conditions. Here are some cautions regarding baclofen use:
- Tell your doctor if you are allergic to baclofen, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in the medication.
- Tell your doctor about other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. If you are taking antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, medications for mental conditions, medications for seizures, sedatives, or sleeping pills, your doctor may need to change the dosage of the medication or monitor you closely for side effects.
- Tell your doctor if you have ever had epilepsy, stroke, rheumatic disease, cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, a mental condition such as schizophrenia, or kidney disease.
- 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 right away.
- Be aware that baclofen can make you drowsy. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects your body.
Baclofen Side Effects
Baclofen can cause serious side effects, including:
- Mood swings.
- Confusion.
- Depression.
- Hallucinations.
The most common side effects of baclofen are:
- Drowsiness.
- Dizzy.
- Weak.
- Tired.
- Headache.
- Difficulty sleeping or insomnia.
- Nauseous.
- Increased urination.
- Constipation.
In rare cases, a person may have a serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis when using baclofen. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Skin rash or itching.
- Pallor or discoloration of the face or body.
- Swelling of the throat or other parts of the body.
- Chest tightness.
- Wheezing or coughing.
- Hoarse voice.
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
- Stomach cramps.
- Diarrhea.
- Vomit.
A person who experiences any of the above side effect symptoms after taking baclofen should seek emergency medical attention.
Baclofen Interactions
Baclofen can interact with other drugs. This can increase the risk of side effects. Drugs that can interact with baclofen are:
- Other muscle relaxants.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen.
- Medication to treat high blood pressure.
- Mood stabilizer lithium.
- The antidepressant drug amitriptyline.
- Parkinson’s disease medication.
You should also tell your doctor if you are taking any dietary or herbal supplements, as some products may interact with medications such as baclofen.
Baclofen Contraindications
Contraindications may occur in someone who is hypersensitive to baclofen.
That’s what you need to know about baclofen. If you need baclofen or other prescription drugs, you can check your medical needs at the health store.