What is the drug baclofen used for?
Descriptions. Baclofen is used to help relax certain muscles in your body. It relieves the spasms, cramping, and tightness of muscles caused by medical problems, including multiple sclerosis or certain injuries to the spine.
Is baclofen a pain killer?
Is baclofen a pain killer? No. Baclofen is a muscle relaxer. While it can relieve pain due to muscle spasms, it does not relieve pain due to other types of pain such as inflammatory or nerve pain.
Is baclofen considered to be a narcotic?
Baclofen is the generic name of a prescription medication. Baclofen treats muscle spasticity, which is often a condition in people who have multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries or diseases, and cerebral palsy. Baclofen is not a narcotic.
What are the most common side effects of baclofen?
Common side effects
- Feeling sleepy, tired, dizzy or weak.
- Feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting)
- Diarrhoea.
- Headaches.
- Problems sleeping.
- Dry mouth.
- Rapid eye movements, blurred vision or difficulty focusing.
- Excessive sweating or a mild rash.
Why does baclofen make you feel good?
Although it is still not exactly known how, baclofen is believed to be able to treat painful muscle spasms by interacting with your central nervous system’s GABA receptors and blocking the signals that your nervous system sends out to your muscles to spasm. Baclofen can also improve muscle movement.
Do baclofen make you sleepy?
This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, vision problems, or clumsiness or unsteadiness in some people. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert, well-coordinated, and able to see well.
Does baclofen work immediately?
Baclofen reduces pain and discomfort caused by muscle spasms. The tablets and liquid start to work after 1 hour after taking it. However, it might take a few days before you find the right dose to control your symptoms.
How many hours does baclofen last?
The plasma elimination half-life of baclofen averages 3 to 4 hours. Baclofen is eliminated largely in unchanged form. Within 72 hours, about 75% of the dose is excreted via the kidneys with about 5% of this amount as metabolites.
What to avoid while taking baclofen?
Do not use baclofen at a time when you need muscle tone for safe balance and movement during certain activities. In some situations, it may be dangerous for you to have reduced muscle tone. Avoid drinking alcohol. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you.