Baclofen is also known as Lioresal and it's a muscle relaxing medication. This medication is prescribed to relieve muscle spasms and cramps caused by multiple sclerosis (MS), cerebral palsy or spinal cord injury. The drug works by blocking nerve signals to the brain that cause muscle contractions and pain.
Baclofen: Uses and Benefits
Baclofen has many uses. Baclofen has been used to treat muscle spasticity caused by neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy. The drug can be used for alcohol withdrawal, trigeminal nerve pain, or hiccups. Baclofen has been shown to be effective at reducing symptoms of spasticity among patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Researchers found in a Neurology
study
that baclofen caused a significant reduction in spasticity when compared with placebo. Baclofen is also effective at treating alcohol dependency. Researchers found in a journal Addiction
study
that baclofen is associated with higher rates of abstinence compared to a placebo. Baclofen is also used for treating trigeminal neuropathy, which causes severe facial pain. Researchers found in a journal article that baclofen significantly reduced pain scores when compared with placebo. Baclofen is also used for treating hiccups. Researchers found in a journal article that baclofen had a higher rate of success in treating hiccups than placebo.
Baclofen: Benefits and side effects
Baclofen is known to have several benefits.
Studies
have shown that baclofen can be used to treat muscle spasticity and alcohol dependency, as well as trigeminal nerve pain, hiccups, and other conditions. Baclofen can also have positive effects on behavior and mood. Baclofen has been shown to improve the behavior of people who have autism spectrum disorder and decrease aggression. Baclofen could also have protective effects on certain cancers. Baclofen has been shown to reduce the likelihood of certain cancers, such as prostate cancer and bladder cancer.
Baclofen side effects list
Although baclofen is a drug with many benefits, there are also some side effects. Dizziness, drowsiness and headaches are common side effects. Seizures, low blood-pressure, an irregular heartbeat and liver damage are all serious side effects. You should contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.
Experts or professionals' opinions on Baclofen
Baclofen has been widely accepted as an effective treatment of muscle spasticity and alcohol dependency, trigeminal nerve pain, and hiccups. They do caution users to use baclofen with care due its possible side effects. Baclofen can be an effective and useful drug to treat spasticity and alcohol dependency, among other conditions. However, it should only be taken with caution in order to avoid side-effects.
Start with it
Speak to your doctor before taking baclofen. Your doctor will decide the right dose for your needs. The recommended dosage of baclofen in general is between 5-10mg taken three times a day. This may differ depending on the individual. Baclofen comes in tablet form and is typically taken by mouth. You can also get it as an intrathecal spinal injection.
What are the side effects of taking this medication?
You should know that baclofen can cause some unwanted side effects. Dizziness, drowsiness and headache are the most common of all side effects. Seizures, a low blood pressure level, an irregular heartbeat and liver damage are more serious side effects. You should consult a doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.
Conclusion
Baclofen can be used to treat muscle spasticity and alcohol dependency, as well as trigeminal nerve pain, hiccups, or a combination of these conditions. It is not without side effects, and should only be taken with caution. You should consult your doctor before taking baclofen to find out the right dose.
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