Baclofen Intrathecal Pump Medicine - Information, Side effects and uses of Baclofen

Brand name: Baclospas, Lioresal

Type of drug: Muscle relaxant

Chemically, baclofen is related to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a naturally-occurring neurotransmitter in the brain.

Uses of Baclofen

A drug which relaxes muscles, thereby relieving painful spasms which occur in conditions such as multiple sclerosis or which are caused by trauma such as spinal injuries. Baclofen is also a useful treatment option for seized-up or spastic muscles that can occur following brain injury, cerebral palsy or stroke.

How it works:

The exact way it works is unknown, but it is thought to act on the spinal cord and inhibit the transmission of chemicals which contribute to the spasms. It relieves symptoms but does not cure the underlying condition.

Possible adverse and side effects:

Dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, weakness. These effects are more likely to occur in patients over 40 years of age and should be reported to a doctor immediately.

Other information on Baclofen:

Administered either as tablets or as an injection - although the latter will only be given in hospital. May interfere with a diabetic's blood sugar levels. Do not take any other medication without checking with your doctor first.

Drug Interactions

The use of baclofen with other drugs which also decrease the function of the nerves can carry out to the additional reduction of the function of brain. In more of the risk to decrease the function of brain, the use of baclofen and the antidepressant tricycic (for example, Elavil, Sinequan) together can cause the weakness of muscle. The use of baclofen and the inhibitors of oxydase of monoamine (for example Nardil, Parnate) can have like consequence a greater depression of function of brain as well as hypotension. Since baclofen can increase the sugar of blood, amounts of antidiabetic drugs can have to be adjusted when baclofen is started.

Precautions and Warnings

Children: This drug is either not recommended for children, or is recommended only for d1tldren above a certain age.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: This drug is either not recommended for use by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or the precise effects are not known and it should therefore only be used with caution and under medical advice.

Alcohol: Alcohol should not be consumed, or only with caution – after medical advice has been sought - while you are taking this drug.

What should I avoid while taking baclofen?

Pay attention while leading, the functioning machines, or execution of other dangerous activities. Baclofen can cause the giddiness or somnolence. If you test the giddiness or somnolence, avoid these activities. Employ alcohol with precaution. Alcohol can increase somnolence and the giddiness while you take baclofen.