Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 27, 2022.
Do not discontinue abruptly. Abrupt discontinuation of intrathecal baclofen, regardless of the cause, has resulted in a condition that includes high fever, altered mental status, exaggerated rebound spasticity, and muscle rigidity, and in rare cases has led to rhabdomyolysis, multiple organ-system failure, and death. Prevention of abrupt discontinuation of intrathecal baclofen requires careful attention to programming and monitoring of the infusion system, refill scheduling and procedures, and pump alarms. Patients and caregivers should be advised of the importance of keeping scheduled refill visits and should be educated on the early symptoms of baclofen withdrawal. Special attention should be given to patients at apparent risk (eg, spinal cord injuries at T-6 or above, communication difficulties, history of withdrawal symptoms from oral or intrathecal baclofen). Consult the technical manual of the implantable infusion system for additional post-implant clinician and patient information .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Gablofen
- Lioresal
Available Dosage Forms:
- Solution
Therapeutic Class: Skeletal Muscle Relaxant, Centrally Acting
Chemical Class: Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (class)
Uses for baclofen
Intrathecal baclofen is used to help relax certain muscles in your body. It relieves the spasms, cramping, and tightness of muscles caused by medical problems such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, or certain injuries to the spine. Intrathecal baclofen does not cure these problems, but it may allow other treatment, such as physical therapy, to be more helpful in improving your condition.
Intrathecal baclofen acts on the central nervous system (CNS) to produce its muscle relaxant effects. Its actions on the CNS may also cause some of the medicine's side effects.
Baclofen is delivered by a drug pump directly into the spinal fluid of your back. A doctor will surgically place the pump and monitor the dose of the medication that is delivered by the pump. The dose of intrathecal baclofen will be different for different patients and will depend on the type of muscle tightne..
