Baclofen: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo

Baclofen

Rx Only

Therapeutic ClassSkeletal Muscle Relaxant

Common Dose5–20 mg, 3 times daily

Max / Day80 mg

PregnancyCategory C

Indications ▼

Spasticity due to multiple sclerosis

Spinal cord injury–related muscle spasm

Neurological disorders with muscle rigidity

Adjunct therapy in chronic muscle spasm

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Acts as a GABA-B receptor agonist in the spinal cord, inhibiting excitatory neurotransmitter release and reducing muscle spasticity.

Pharmacokinetics: Rapid oral absorption; peak in 2–3 hours; minimal hepatic metabolism; primarily excreted unchanged via kidneys; half-life 3–4 hours.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Patient Category	Recommended Dose	Max / Day
Adults	Start 5 mg three times daily; titrate gradually	80 mg
Elderly	Lower initial dose recommended	80 mg
Intrathecal	Specialist-administered only	Individualized

Side Effects ▼

Common: Drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, fatigue

Occasional: Nausea, hypotension, confusion

Rare: Respiratory depression, seizures (with abrupt withdrawal)

Contraindications ▼

Hypersensitivity to baclofen

Use with caution in renal impairment

Avoid abrupt discontinuation

Drug Interaction ▼

CNS depressants: enhanced sedation

Alcohol: increased dizziness and drowsiness

Antihypertensives: additive hypotension

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Use only if benefit outweighs risk (Category C)

Excreted in breast milk; caution advised

Storage & Handling ▼

Store at 20–25°C

Protect from moisture and light

Keep out of reach of children

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Take exactly as prescribed and do not stop suddenly

May cause drowsiness; avoid driving initially

Avoid alcohol during treatment

Report confusion, breathing difficulty, or weakness

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh (Local Brands):

Lioresal Baclon Baclospas Bacfen Bacfen

Global Brands:

Lioresal Kemstro

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational use only. Always consult a registered physician before using this medicine.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Calcium Channel Blockers (Dihydropyridine) • Conditions: Hypertension & Angina • Pathway: Calcium Influx in Cardiac & Vascular Smooth Muscle • Clinical Evidence & Trials