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Baclofen - Learn about Baclofen Side Effects and Precautions

Baclofen Information

The pharmacology action of Baclofen is that it may inhibit transmission of reflexes at spinal level, possibly by action (hyperpolarization) at primary afferent fiber terminals resulting in relief of muscle spasticity; has CNS depressant properties. Abrupt discontinuation of Baclofen has resulted in high fever, altered mental status, exaggerated rebound spasticity, and muscle rigidity that in rare cases advances to rhabdomyolysis, multiple organ system failure and death.

Baclofen is used in treatment of reversible spasticity resulting from multiple sclerosis. May be of some value in patients with spinal cord injuries and other spinal cord diseases. Baclofen is also used in treatment of severe spasticity of spinal cord origin in patients who are unresponsive to or cannot tolerate oral baclofen therapy. Used intrathecally in single bolus test doses; chronic use requires implantable pump.

Interaction and Contraindication of Baclofen

Interaction of Baclofen - CNS depressants:  May cause increased sedative effects.
Morphine (epidural):  May cause hypotension and dyspnea

Contraindication of Baclofen - Treatment of spasms from rheumatic disorders, stroke, cerebral palsy and Parkinson disease; use of intrathecal form via IV, IM, SC, or epidural routes.

Side Effects of Baclofen

Here are the list of some common side effects of Baclofen :

• Hypotension; palpitations; chest pain.
• Drowsiness; weakness in lower extremities; dizziness; seizures; headache; numbness; euphoria; depression; confusion; lethargy; insomnia; hallucinations; paresthesia; asthenia; anxiety; agitation.
• Tinnitus; blurred vision; taste disorder; nasal congestion
• Nausea; vomiting; dry mouth; constipation; diarrhea; abdominal pain; anorexia
• Hypotonia; slurred speech; muscle pain; ankle edema; excessive perspiration; weight gain; back pain

Precaution and Warning while taking Baclofen

The precaution and warnings of Baclofen drug is as follows:

• Explain that full effectiveness of drug may not occur until several weeks after initiation of drug therapy.
• Warn patient not to discontinue medication abruptly. Explain that hallucinations or seizures may occur.
• Instruct patient to avoid intake of alcoholic beverages or other CNS depressants.
• Teach patient to avoid sudden position changes to prevent orthostatic hypotension.
• Caution diabetic patient that false elevation of blood glucose may occur. Instruct patient to monitor blood glucose carefully.
• Instruct patient to report the following symptoms to health care provider: dizziness, nausea, hypotension, urinary frequency, retention, painful urination, headache, seizures, weakness.
• Advise patient that drug may cause drowsiness, and to use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring mental alertness.

How to store Baclofen

• If there is not a substantive clinical response to increases in the daily dose, check for proper pump function and catheter patency.
• The daily maintenance dose may be reduced 10% to 20% if patients experience side effects.
• Have resuscitation equipment available during trial drug period if intrathecal administration is considered. Patient must have positive response to trial of intrathecal medication before use of implantable pump.
• Store at room temperature in tightly closed container