Baclofen

What is Baclofen? How does Baclofen work? The drug Baclofen also known under the brand name Lioresal, is used as a muscle relaxer for skeletal muscle spasms. It’s often prescribed for those suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or with injuries of the spinal chord. This medicine is a neurotransmitter to the brain and it blocks the muscle contractions that cause these spasms. This medication is prescribed at generally anywhere from 5mg to 80mg per day. This medicine can be addictive and anyone with a Baclofen addiction could suffer serious withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking the drug abruptly.

Baclofen side effects can include: low blood pressure, dizziness, insomnia, problems related to urination (frequency or infrequency problems) and others. This medication can interact with other drugs so you should speak to your doctor and pharmacist about any other prescription, over the counter or even herbal supplements that you are taking. Some known interactions include anti-diabetic drugs and anti-depression drugs.

Those taking Baclofen should not drink alcohol. Alcohol can enhance side effects of this medicine. When a patient begins taking this medication, they should also rest and watch for how their body reacts. Engaging in activities requiring strong coordination skills should not happen until you know you can manage based on understanding how Baclofen medication affects you.

Beyond taking oral mediation, there’s also the Baclofen pump that delivers medication right to your spine. A Baclofen pump implant can make a great impact on your quality of life. Baclofen pumps might make you nervous with the fear of Baclofen pump malfunction. That’s why understanding the drug Baclofen and the pump is a good idea. A patient’s understanding potential complications of a Baclofen pump and signs to watch for with Baclofen toxicity icd is important. Your doctor should spend a considerable amount of time explaining this to you and you should address any concerns that you have about Lioresal or Baclofen malfunction, side effects of Baclofen and information about how Baclofen works. If the pump malfunctions, it could deliver too much or too little medication. If someone suspects their pump is malfunctioning, they need to proceed to an emergency room. They will likely be given the physostigmine drug to help. The pump is refilled every one to three months and has a battery life of five to seven years. Many insurance companies will cover the pump if there hasn’t been a good response to the oral medication.