Baclofen, Lioresal Information
Lioresal, baclofen
Lioresal tablets.
Each Lioresal tablet contains 25 mg. baclofen. Lioresal,
baclofen, comes in packs of 60 tablets and is manufactured by
Novartis.
Common uses and directions for Lioresal, baclofen
Baclofen is a muscle relaxant and antispastic. Baclofen is
useful for the alleviation of signs and symptoms of spasticity resulting
from multiple sclerosis, particularly for the relief of flexor spasms and
concomitant pain, clonus and muscular rigidity.
Baclofen may also be of some value in patients with spinal
cord injuries and other spinal cord diseases.
The determination of optimal dosage requires individual titration. Start the
baclofen therapy at a low dosage and increase gradually until optimum effect
is achieved (usually between 40-80 mg daily).
The most common side effects of the treatment with
baclofen, are transient drowsiness, dizziness, weakness and fatigue. Other
possible side effects of the treatment with baclofen include confusion,
headache, insomnia and nausea.
Baclofen, Lioresal common uses
Baclofen, brand name Lioresal, is a muscle relaxant and
antispastic. Baclofen tablets are available as 10 mg. tablets for oral
administration.
Lioresal, baclofen, is used to relieve the muscle spasms,
pain, and muscular rigidity associated with multiple sclerosis.
The precise mechanism of action of baclofen as a muscle
relaxant and antispasticity agent is not fully understood. Baclofen inhibits
both monosynaptic and polysynaptic reflexes at the spinal level, although
actions at supraspinal sites may also occur and contribute to its clinical
effect.
Baclofen may also be of some value in patients with spinal
cord injuries and other spinal cord diseases.
Lioresal is not indicated in the treatment of skeletal muscle spasm
resulting from rheumatic disorders.
Baclofen, Lioresal directions
Lioresal comes as a tablet, 10 mg., to take by mouth.
Baclofen absorption is not affected by food, but baclofen should be taken
with a meal to minimize stomach upset.
The determination of optimal dosage requires individual
titration. Start the therapy with Lioresal at a low dosage and increase
gradually until optimum effect is achieved (usually between 40-80 mg daily).
The following dosage schedule is suggested:
5 mg. t.i.d. for 3 days 10 mg. t.i.d. for 3 days 15 mg. t.i.d. for 3 days 20
mg. t.i.d. for 3 days
Thereafter additional increases may be necessary but the
total daily dose should not exceed a maximum of 80 mg daily (20 mg. q.i.d.).
The lowest dose of baclofen compatible with an optimal response is
recommended. If benefits are not evident after a reasonable trial period,
patients should be slowly withdrawn from baclofen.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered if it is
within an hour or so. If you do not remember until later, skip the missed
dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to
catch up.
Baclofen, Lioresal precautions
Because of the possibility of sedation, patients should be
cautioned regarding the operation of automobiles or other dangerous
machinery, and activities made hazardous by decreased alertness. Patients
should also be cautioned that the central nervous system effects of baclofen
may be additive to those of alcohol and other CNS depressants.
Baclofen should be used with caution where spasticity is
utilized to sustain upright posture and balance in locomotion or whenever
spasticity is utilized to obtain increased function.
In patients with epilepsy, the clinical state and
electroencephalogram should be monitored at regular intervals, since
deterioration in seizure control and EEG have been reported occasionally in
patients taking baclofen.
Because baclofen is primarily excreted unchanged through
the kidneys, it should be given with caution, and it may be necessary to
reduce the dosage, in individuals with impaired renal function.
Safe use of baclofen in children under 12 has not been
established, and it is, therefore, not recommended for use in children.
Baclofen should be used during pregnancy only if the benefit clearly
justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Baclofen is, when taken orally, excreted in human milk why
nursing while using baclofen is not recommended.
Abrupt discontinuation: Special attention should be given to individuals at
apparent risk (e.g. spinal cord injuries at T-6 or above, communication
difficulties, history of withdrawal symptoms from oral or intrathecal
baclofen). When appropriate, oral baclofen and/or diazepam rectal gel can be
prescribed for emergency use.
Baclofen, Lioresal possible side effects
The most common side effects of the treatment with
baclofen, are transient drowsiness, dizziness, weakness and fatigue. Other
possible side effects include confusion, headache, insomnia and nausea.
Baclofen, Lioresal overdose
If overdose of baclofen is suspected, contact your local
poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Serious overdosage with baclofen may be characterized by vomiting, muscular
hypotonia, drowsiness, accommodation disorders, coma, respiratory
depression, and seizures.
Additional information
Keep Lioresal in a tightly closed container and out of
reach of children. Store Lioresal at room temperature and away from excess
heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
Note
The above information is intended to supplement, not
substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, or other
healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of
baclofen is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare
professional before using Lioresal.
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