What is Lioresal (Baclofen) used for?

Lioresal (Baclofen) is an oral muscle relaxer prescribed to treat the symptoms of multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease, or cerebral palsy. The medication operates by preventing involuntary muscle movements or spasms that may occur as a result of these conditions. This function may also make it useful for preventing similar symptoms following a stroke, head injury, or in the event of a tumor affecting the spinal cord. Your physician may prescribe it to treat other unlisted conditions, as well.

How should I use Lioresal (Baclofen)?

Use Lioresal (Baclofen) strictly according to the instructions of your physician to get the safest and most effective results from treatment. The normal regimen is one tablet taken three times each day, but your particular dosage will depend on the condition being treated, your current health, and the severity of your symptoms. They should be swallowed with a full glass of water and may be taken on an empty stomach, but a meal or snack is recommended if you experience nausea. Note that it may take one to two months of treatment before the desired effects occur and that it may be necessary to taper off doses when stopping use to prevent unexpected problems that may occur. Never change the form of the medicine by chewing, splitting, or crushing it as this may destroy or alter the effects of their contents. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about the medicine to ensure the correct usage.

What are the side effects of Lioresal (Baclofen)?

Some patients using Lioresal (Baclofen) have reported experiencing side effects such as:

• Headaches
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Dizziness
• Nausea or constipation
• Increased urination
• Insomnia

Serious side effects that may occur during treatment include an irregular heartbeat, hallucinations, confusion, or seizures. Immediately inform your physician if you experience any of these serious side effects or other symptoms that worry you to make sure the correct changes are made to your treatment. These may include lowering your doses, reducing your frequency of application, or emergency medical attention.

Please Note

Do not use Lioresal (Baclofen) if you have a peptic ulcer. Also inform your physician if you are elderly or if you have Parkinson's disease, depression, recent stroke, diabetes, epilepsy, respiratory disease, chronic confusion, urinary retention, decreased liver function, or decreased kidney function. These conditions may cause problems during treatment requiring reduced doses or other adjustments to your regimen.

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Lioresal (Baclofen). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.