About baclofen
Centrally acting muscle relaxant
Used for
- Treats muscle spasms and stiffness, especially from multiple sclerosis or spinal cord disorders.
Usual adult dose
Usually starts at 5 mg three times daily; increased gradually. Common maintenance: 40–80 mg daily in divided doses.
Usual dose in children
For children over 12 years: usually starts at 5 mg three times daily, increased gradually under specialist supervision.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness or dizziness
- Weakness or tiredness
- Nausea or constipation
- Confusion or headache
Important warnings
- Do not stop suddenly; withdrawal can cause hallucinations or seizures.
- May impair alertness; avoid driving if affected.
- Use cautiously with kidney disease, seizures, or a history of mental health problems.
- Overdose can cause severe sleepiness, slow breathing, or coma.
Pregnancy
Use only when needed after weighing benefits and risks; consult a clinician before changing treatment.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk; monitor infants for unusual sleepiness or poor feeding.
Interactions
- Alcohol, opioids, and sedatives can worsen sleepiness and breathing problems.
- Medicines that lower blood pressure may increase dizziness or fainting.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.