Baclofen is indicated for the treatment of muscle spasm, muscle contraction, spasticity resulting from multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries & other spinal cord diseases, muscle spasm of cerebral origin especially infantile cerebralpalsy, cerebrovascular accidents or neoplastic or degenerative brain disease, tension-type headache.
GABA Analogue; Central Skeletal Muscle Relaxant
Baclofen inhibits both monosynaptic and polysynaptic reflexes at the spinal level by stimulating the GABAB receptors, which inhibits the release of glutamate and aspartate. It may also act at intraspinal sites producing CNS depression. Baclofen also exerts an antinociceptive effect.
Baclofen should be given in divided doses preferably 3 times daily for adults & 4 times daily for children. The lowest dose compatible with an optimal response is recommended. The dosage shall be started from 5 mg three times a day to a maximum of 20 mg three times a day.
Increased sedation may occur if Baclofen is taken with agents acting on the central nervous system, alcohol or synthetic opiates. The risk of respiratory depression is also increased.
Combined treatment with Baclofen and antihypertensives is likely to increase the fall in blood pressure; therefore the dosage of antihypertensive medication should be adjusted accordingly.
The concomitant administration of Baclofen and tricyclic antidepressants may potentiate the pharmacological effects of Baclofen resulting in pronounced muscular hypotonia.
In patients with Parkinsons disease receiving treatment with Baclofen and levodopa and carbidopa, there have been several reports of mental confusion, hallucinations, headaches, nausea and agitation.
The concurrent use of MAO inhibitors and Baclofen may result in increased CNS depressant effects. Caution is advised and the dosage of one or both agents should be adjusted accordingly.
Caution should be exercised when administering Baclofen and magnesium sulphate or other neuromuscular blocking agents since a synergistic effect may theoretically occur.
Baclofen is contraindicated in patients with previously demonstrated hypersensitivity to any of the components of the product.
The most common adverse reactions associated with Baclofen are transient drowsiness, daytime sedation, dizziness, weakness & fatigue.
Pregnancy category B. Baclofen is excreted in breast milk however evidence to date suggests that the quantities are so small that no undesirable Effects on the infant would be expected.
Gastric lavage is important in case of severe overdose.
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
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