About baclofen
GABA-B receptor agonist muscle relaxant
Used for
- Treats severe muscle stiffness and spasms from spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis.
- Delivered into spinal fluid by an implanted pump when other treatments are inadequate.
Usual adult dose
Specialist-adjusted dose through an intrathecal pump; dosing is individualized after a supervised test dose.
Usual dose in children
Used in selected children; specialist-adjusted intrathecal dosing after a supervised test dose.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness, dizziness, weakness, or headache.
- Nausea, low blood pressure, or urinary problems.
- Pump or catheter problems, including infection or leakage.
Important warnings
- Must be given intrathecally by trained clinicians; never inject into a vein or muscle.
- Sudden interruption can cause life-threatening withdrawal, including fever, confusion, severe stiffness, or seizures.
- Excess dosing can cause severe sleepiness, breathing problems, coma, or death.
- Pump treatment requires regular refills and monitoring.
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy only when a clinician judges the expected benefit outweighs potential risks; human evidence is limited.
Breastfeeding
Limited information is available; discuss use with a clinician, especially if the infant is premature or unwell.
Interactions
- Alcohol, opioids, and sedatives can increase drowsiness and breathing suppression.
- Medicines that lower blood pressure may increase dizziness or fainting.
- Other drugs affecting the nervous system may intensify sedation or weakness.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.