Baclofen – Muscle relaxant for spasticity and neurological conditions.
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What is Baclofen?
Baclofen is a specialized muscle relaxant that’s particularly effective for treating spasticity caused by neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and stroke. It requires careful dose adjustment and monitoring due to its sedating effects and potential for withdrawal symptoms.
Book an online consultation if you’re experiencing muscle spasticity, neurological conditions causing muscle stiffness, or chronic muscle spasms that haven’t responded to other treatments. Our GPs can assess whether Baclofen is appropriate and provide proper monitoring for dose optimization and side effects.
What is Baclofen used for?
- Muscle spasticity from multiple sclerosis
- Spinal cord injuries and spasticity
- Cerebral palsy muscle stiffness
- Stroke-related muscle spasticity
- Chronic back pain with muscle spasms
- Trigeminal neuralgia (facial pain)
- Alcohol withdrawal (specialist use)
- Huntington's disease spasticity
How does Baclofen work?
A muscle relaxant that acts on GABA-B receptors in the spinal cord and brain, reducing nerve signals that cause muscle spasticity and spasms, leading to muscle relaxation.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
Starting dose 5mg three times daily, gradually increased to 15-20mg three times daily. Maximum 100mg daily.
Children
Weight-based dosing starting from 2.5mg twice daily—specialist supervision required.
Important Notes
- Take with or after food to reduce stomach upset.
- Start with low dose and increase gradually every 3-4 days.
- Take doses evenly spaced throughout the day.
- Never stop suddenly—gradual dose reduction required.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Drowsiness and sedation
- Dizziness
- Weakness and fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Confusion (especially in elderly)
- Constipation
- Urinary frequency
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
- Respiratory depression (especially with other depressants)
- Severe confusion or hallucinations
- Liver problems (rare)
- Severe allergic reactions
- Falls due to muscle weakness and dizziness
Important Warnings
- May cause significant drowsiness—avoid driving or operating machinery.
- NEVER stop suddenly—can cause dangerous withdrawal symptoms including seizures.
- Use with extreme caution in elderly patients—increased risk of falls and confusion.
- Tell your GP if you have kidney problems, epilepsy, or breathing difficulties.
- Alcohol significantly increases drowsiness and respiratory depression risk.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- Alcohol—dangerous increase in sedation and respiratory depression.
- Other sedating medications—additive drowsiness and breathing depression.
- Blood pressure medications—may enhance blood pressure lowering effects.
- Tricyclic antidepressants—may increase muscle relaxant effects.
- Lithium—may worsen confusion and memory problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Baclofen to work?
You may notice some muscle relaxation within a few days, but full benefits often take 1-2 weeks as the dose is gradually increased to the optimal level.
Why must the dose be increased slowly?
Gradual dose increases allow your body to adjust and reduce the risk of excessive sedation, dizziness, and weakness that can occur with rapid increases.
Can I stop taking Baclofen if my spasticity improves?
Never stop suddenly. Baclofen withdrawal can cause dangerous symptoms including seizures. Any dose reduction must be done very gradually under medical supervision.
Will Baclofen help with regular muscle aches?
Baclofen is specifically for spasticity from neurological conditions. For regular muscle aches, other treatments like NSAIDs or simple muscle relaxants may be more appropriate.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14