Baclofen
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Baclofen
Baclofen is a muscle relaxant drug. Baclofen reduces the severity of muscular spasms in neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis. It also reduces frequency of muscle spasms in multiple sclerosis.
Therapeutic Uses of Baclofen
Baclofen is used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis and other musculoskeletal disorders (for treating muscle spasms). It can also be used in other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Direction of use of Baclofen
Baclofen should be used as the direction of your doctor. Generally it is taken orally with food or on empty stomach. If you have any question regarding the uses of Baclofen, consult your doctor or health care provider.
Dose of Baclofen, if Missed
If you miss a dose of Baclofen take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for the next dose than skip the missed dose and continue as regular schedule of the medicine. If you miss more than 1 dose consult your doctor. Never take 2 doses together to catch up with the missed dose.
How to Store Baclofen
Baclofen should be stored at room temperature i.e. between 68 and 77 degree Fahrenheit or 20-25 degree Centigrade. It should be stored in a tightly closed container away from the reach of children, moisture, direct light and heat. It can be stored above or below the ideal temperature for a short duration of time.
More Information About Baclofen
Baclofen should not be shared with anyone and it should be used by the patient for whom it is prescribed. If there is no improvement of symptoms or there is deterioration of symptoms, consult your doctor.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Baclofen
Do not take Baclofen if you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Baclofen and consult your doctor immediately if you are allergic.
Important notes to remember:
- Baclofen can cause dizziness, drowsiness; lightheadedness etc. and all these effects of Baclofen can be more serious if it is taken along with alcohol or certain medication. So do not drive or do risky works if you are taking Baclofen, till you are sure how you react to it. Take precaution while taking Baclofen.
- Pregnancy and breast feeding: consult your doctor if you are pregnant to discuss risk and benefits of Baclofen during pregnancy. If you are doubtful about your pregnancy, please do pregnancy test before taking Baclofen. It is not clear if it passes to breast milk, but it should be avoided during breast feeding.
- Baclofen is not recommended in children below 12 years of age, as the effectiveness and its safety is not established in children below 12 years of age.
- Do not take alcohol, medicines that cause sedation and drowsiness like sleeping pills or muscle relaxants if you are on Baclofen. Consult your health care provider if any drug can cause drowsiness.
Possible Adverse Effects
The following are the common side effects of Baclofen and consult your doctor if any of the side effects are bothering you or present for long time:
- Nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, insomnia etc.
Consult your doctor immediately if you have any of the following serious side effets:
- Allergic reaction (difficulty in breathing, tightness in chest, skin rash, hives, itching, swelling in lips, mouth, face etc.) to any of the ingredients of Baclofen, difficulty in speech, blurring of vision, sore throat, vomiting, increase in frequency of micturition (urination), weakness of upper limbs and lower limbs.