Baclofen Side Effects

Serious Side Effects of Baclofen

Consult your doctor or care provider immediately should you begin to experience any of these symptoms Neurological (when administered directly to the spine):

Seizures
Coma

Respiratory:

Pneumonia

Baclofen has serious withdrawal effects, and the abrupt discontinuation of Baclofen can result in:

Extreme levels of fever
Altered mental state
Muscle rigidity
Multiple organ-system failure
Death

Warnings & Recalls for Baclofen

Black Box Warning:

Abrupt discontinuation of the drug can lead to symptoms of withdrawal that can be critically dangerous. High fever, altered mental heatlh, exaggerated rebound spasticity, multiple organ-system failure, and death. Pay careful attention to all programming and monitoring infusion systems, refill schedules and procedures, and pump alarms.

Baclofen Treatment and Use

Baclofen is the generic form of a Gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA), it’s main use being the treatment of spastic breakouts, and is often used in the treatment of alcoholism, dependance, and withdrawal. Baclofen has been used in the suppression of hiccups. Baclofen may be prescribed for:

The treatment of muscular symptoms, such as multiple sclerosis, spasm, pain or stiffness
Spastic activity, such as hiccups

How does Baclofen work?

Baclofen works through the activation of the bodies GABA receptors (see link above), producing therapeutic, yet safe and non-adictive, effects. Baclofen is administered orally, and does not undergo any drastic changes within the body, although the drug can also be pumped into the cerebral spinal fluid through an implant underneath the skin.

Dosing Information

When taking Baclofen, always discuss with your doctor what dosage is right for you.

For Adults:

Oral– a 5 milligram dose, taken with water, up to 3 times for 3 days. From there, typically dosage is increased to 10 milligrams, 3 times a day for 3 days. Gradually increase the dosage by 5 milligrams every three days, under the guidance of your physician. Do not exceed 80 milligrams in one day.

Other Names for Baclofen

Balcofen is the Generic Name for this drug.

Brand Names:

Lioresal and Lioresal Intrathecal

Gablofen

Kemstro

Beklo