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Baclofen

Pain Relief

Brand names:

Fleqsuvy®, Gablofen®, Lyvispah®, Ozobax DS®, Lioresal®

Often used for:

Muscle spasms and muscle stiffness

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What is baclofen?

Baclofen is a medicine used to help muscles relax (muscle relaxant). It can help with muscle spasms, tightness, stiffness, and pain. Baclofen may be used for patients with multiple sclerosis or spinal cord problems.

This medicine may be given in the clinic, hospital, or at home.

Stopping the medicine too fast can result in unwanted side effects. Your care team will make a plan if the medicine must be stopped.  

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May be given through the spine (intrathecal)

 
Brain

May be given as a tablet by mouth

 
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May be given as a liquid by mouth

 
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Possible side effects

  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Headache
  • Skin irritation or rash
  • Sleep problems
  • Allergic reaction – Call your care team right away if your child has symptoms of an allergic reaction. These may include:
    • Rash, hives, or itching
    • Flu-like symptoms such as chills, aches, headache, or fever 
    • Dizziness
    • Shortness of breath, coughing, or tightness in the throat  
    • Swelling of the face or neck

Not all patients who take baclofen will have these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report any symptoms or side effects to your care provider or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your health care provider or pharmacist. 

  • This medicine may make your child dizzy or drowsy. Do not let your child do anything that could be dangerous until you see how this medicine affects them.
  • It may take 3 to 5 days for this medicine to start working.
  • Do not stop taking other medicine for pain until directed by your care team or pharmacist.
  • Alcohol may interact with this medicine. Be sure your child does not drink alcohol.
  • It is important that patients tell the care team if they are sexually active, pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Baclofen at home
  • Tablets:
    • This medicine may be taken with or without food.
    • Store tablets at room temperature.
    • Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
  • Liquid products:
    • This medicine may be taken with or without food.
    • Shake well before use.
    • Measure liquid doses carefully. Use the measuring device that comes with this medicine. If there is none, ask the pharmacist for a device to measure this medicine.
    • Store liquid medicine in the refrigerator.
  • Do not use the medicine past the expiration date.
  • Finish all doses of the medicine as instructed. Do not give more often or in greater amounts than recommended.
  • Follow instructions for safe handling, storage, and disposal.

Learn more about baclofen

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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Reviewed: April 2024