What Is Baclofen Used For? Can It Cause Addiction?

Baclofen addiction treatment usually consists of detox, some form of inpatient or outpatient treatment, support groups, and aftercare. Because the sudden stop of baclofen can lead to dangerous effects, it’s important to slowly wean yourself off of the medication during detox. Chronic misuse of baclofen can lead to dependence and addiction. Once you develop dependence or addiction to baclofen and you try to stop taking the medication, baclofen withdrawal symptoms arise. Additionally, psychological support can be provided to help manage any emotional and psychological challenges during withdrawal.

The oral forms comprise tablets, caplets, and capsules whose sizes vary according to their strength. They are supplied as white or off-white colored tablets and capsules. Most studies have shown that it has something to do with the way in which baclofen interacts with the GABA receptors in the brain. Baclofen interacts with GABA-B receptors in the brain, which are involved in the regulation of neurotransmitter systems for dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate as well as memory pathways and other cognitive functions. Studies over the last decade have shown evidence that baclofen may be a treatment option for those suffering from AUD, though exactly how it works is unclear. Some of the side effects can be exacerbated when the drug is taken in large amounts or in conjunction with other CNS depressants such as opioids and or alcohol.

Some brand name versions of baclofen include Gablofen, Lioresal, and Kemstro. We describe a case of unusual presentation of baclofen dependence. If the user takes other CNS depressants or alcohol in addition to baclofen, this can exacerbate the high and result in profound dizziness and drowsiness.

Centrally Acting Muscle Relaxants

For these reasons, people are advised to keep baclofen away from kids or teens, including anybody who has no prescription for it. Since Baclofen influences the central nervous system (CNS), it may lead to dizziness, drowsiness, visual disturbances, and issues with coordination or balance. However, the drug itself can lead to Baclofen withdrawal symptoms which may necessitate Baclofen withdrawal treatment.

Baclofen for anxiety is an off-label use, so getting professional medical assistance from a doctor is crucial. It is hypothesised that baclofen's interaction with GABA-B receptors is what is responsible for its ability to null cravings for certain substances, including alcohol. Olivier Ameisen, a physician who suffered from AUD claimed in a 2005 paper that he was able to nullify the desire for alcohol with a 270mg daily dose of baclofen. Though his case study on himself seemed to prove the efficacy of baclofen for treating addiction, further studies have failed to designate exactly why it works. Many addicts remain in denial over the grip a substance has on them for a long time. If you want to get help, then you’re already one step closer to living a drug-free life.

ITB pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics

Serious adverse events, including death,were more frequent with baclofen administration. Our clinical experience suggests that baclofen reduces craving and alcohol consumption including in those with poor motivation. The drug causes few side effects and does not add to the intoxication effect of alcohol. Considering that baclofen is safe in those with liver cirrhosis and reduces withdrawal symptoms due to alcohol, a controlled trial comparing it with standard treatment is required. Baclofen has been used to treat other stimulant addictions such as amphetamine and methamphetamine addiction as well as addiction to over-the-counter drugs that contain stimulants. It is often prescribed in drug rehab centers for dual diagnosis treatment for addiction.

Baclofen overdose

These include a drug’s inherent ability to cause addiction, a person’s genetics, and environmental factors. The overall effect is the depression of activity in the brain and spinal cord, which may be responsible for relieving muscle stiffness and tightness. As a depressant, it causes euphoric effects, reduces stress, and can reduce pain sensations. Firstly, being in a group setting can help to make individuals aware of the fact that they are far from alone.

Recovery Connection

Sudden abruption of Lioresal intake can result in organ failure and even death in some cases. United Recovery Project employs a professional team to make sure that you get the right treatment to overcome your substance use disorder and regain your freedom. Various treatment plans are available to help individuals overcome Baclofen addiction, each designed to meet different needs and lifestyles. Stopping Baclofen suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, making it essential to manage the process carefully. It is important to understand how the medication affects individuals, including warnings about drowsiness and dizziness. Always follow the care team’s instructions and do not suddenly stop the medication to avoid severe reactions.

Baclofen Addiction Treatment Levels of Care

Baclofen has pain-relieving and muscle-relaxing qualities that make it susceptible to abuse. When someone abuses baclofen in high doses, it is possible that they will build a tolerance to the drug's effects and eventually develop a physical dependence on it. The negative consequences that come from baclofen dependence are how baclofen dependence addiction is measured. All of the research above indicates that baclofen can be a helpful tool supporting treatment of substance use disorders.

Severe and persistent drowsiness is a direct result of central nervous system depression. As the body is sedated by excessive baclofen, it can become harder to stay awake. If you believe you or someone you love may be struggling with addiction, let us hear your story and help you determine a path to treatment. Call 24/7 to have a discussion with one of our treatment professionals the call is completely free. Admission Line and explanation of convenient private phone and free prescreening. Ask your doctor if baclofen is safe for you to use while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Is Baclofen a Drug of Abuse?

As a standard protocol in the department since 2009, the patients of alcohol dependence are detoxified either with benzodiazepine alone or with baclofen. Patients are followed twice a week for 1st 2 weeks and then weekly thereafter on outpatient basis. Patients admitted in the ward are detoxified and are generally discharged within 2 weeks. Pharmacotherapy for both outdoor and the indoor patients is largely same. In addition to pharmacotherapy, all the patients attended four group therapy sessions which are held once a week. The medical records of all the patients are stringently maintained and include personal details, drug use pattern, severity of dependence, level of motivation, severity of withdrawal, and degree of craving.

Withdrawal symptoms from baclofen are reportedly extremely uncomfortable and cause many who are attempting to stop use to relapse.It is necessary for those who faced the problem of substance abuse and addiction.These baclofen withdrawal symptoms will subside when the user takes the drug.Knowing what to expect can be helpful, and remember that you may not experience any of these symptoms.

Baclofen is a drug which can cause serious harm to the patient if administered incorrectly, especially with intrathecal administration. Baclofen should not be prescribed with other tricyclic antidepressants, as the combination can cause depressed brain function and muscle weakness. It must be used with caution and closely monitored when used on patients with diabetes. Long-term residential treatment provides structured care in the therapeutic community or a sober living home. The treatment aims to resocialize addicted individuals and helps them reintegrate into society with minimal problems.

Baclofen was initially used for the treatment of spastic conditions. Last decade has seen its emergence as a treatment of profound interest in alcohol dependence, opiates and cocaine abuse, and tobacco addiction. Minozzi et al.20 performed a Cochrane review of 12 randomized controlled trials toassess the efficacy and safety of baclofen for the treatment of AUD. Theauthors did not find any difference between baclofen and placebo andconcluded that the evidence regarding the use of baclofen as a first-linetreatment for AUD is uncertain. Conversely, a meta-analysis by Pierce et al.21 evaluated 13 randomized controlled trials and concluded that baclofenseems to be effective in the treatment of alcohol dependence, especiallyamong heavy drinkers.

Baclofen side effects - Intrathecal

Drinking alcohol while taking baclofen can also cause you to unknowingly overdose on baclofen. Mixing baclofen with other substances is dangerous because it can lead to severe side effects. It is also dangerous because it could cause baclofen to interact with other substances.

Baclofen is a prescription drug that many people use for legitimate purposes. It is usually found under the brand name Lioresal and is prescribed by physicians to treat a variety of conditions. As a treatment for muscle spasticity, it’s often used by patients with spinal cord problems or injuries. By increasing the body’s dopamine levels, baclofen helps people feel better when dealing with cravings.

There are also free drug and alcohol hotline numbers you can contact. The follow-up data were extracted from the follow-up notes available in the personal case files of the patients. Cumulative abstinent duration (in days) was calculated for each week. Since many users consumed locally brewed alcohol which can have varied strength of alcohol content, changes in alcohol consumption are recorded in terms of percentage change from pretreatment use.

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