Drug
Baclofen
Pronounced
"BACK-low-fen"
Uses
Baclofen is used to treat muscle spasms caused by certain conditions (such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury/disease). It works by helping to relax the muscles.
Baclofen injection is used by patients who do not respond to or who cannot tolerate the side effects of baclofen taken by mouth.
Warning
Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor. Serious (rarely fatal) withdrawal problems may occur if this medication is suddenly stopped. Get medical help right away if you have any signs of a withdrawal reaction, including: itching, numb/tingling skin, high fever, mental/mood changes (such as confusion), seizures, worsening muscle tightness/stiffness, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine). Tell your doctor if you ever had a withdrawal reaction from baclofen.
Keep all appointments for refilling the pump to avoid any serious withdrawal problems. Your doctor or another health care professional will check that the pump is programmed and working properly during these appointments. If you must miss a refill appointment, contact your doctor right away to reschedule the appointment before you run out of medication. Also, learn what your pump alarm sounds like. If you hear the alarm, contact your doctor right away.
How to Use This Medication
This medication is given by injection into the area around the spinal cord (intrathecal). It is usually given using a drug pump implanted under your skin. A health care professional will fill and refill the pump with medication.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Do not stop treatment with this drug without consulting your doctor. If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have serious withdrawal symptoms. See also Warning section. To prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions right away.
When this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse, or if you have any signs of infection (such as fever, chills, redness/swelling/pain/warmth at the pump site).