A Review of the Potential Mechanisms of Action of Baclofen in Alcohol Use Disorder

Although its ready availability and good tolerance can make it an effective smoking cessation aid, the same can increase its chances of being used as a drug of abuse. 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.

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• There is a high risk of overdosing with baclofen, especially when used for recreation.
• Interview with “X” revealed abusive intake of 20 tablets of 30 mg making a total dose of 600 mg baclofen every day.
• Even people with its prescription for pain relief can become addicted to it.
• Some people may abuse it, as it causes euphoria and calming effects.
• Based on the FDA label information, the precise Baclofen mechanism of action is not fully known.

Drinking alcohol while taking baclofen can also cause you to unknowingly overdose on baclofen. Because baclofen and alcohol are both central nervous system depressants, mixing them heightens both of their effects to dangerous levels. People who take baclofen may mix it with alcohol to heighten their euphoric and calming effects. This is not wise as the extreme levels of drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, changes in mood, and agitation that mixing baclofen and alcohol will give you is dangerous. For example, if allergic to baclofen, you could develop trouble breathing and/or swelling of your throat or tongue. Taking baclofen again after a severe allergic reaction could lead to death.

Where Should an Overdose be Treated?

• However, treatment is essential to not only live a drug-free life but also to reduce the risk of overdose and death.
• As per the Controlled Substance Act (CSA), there are Five drug schedules.
• Food And Drug Administration and initially approved for relieving excessive tension in your muscles (spasms).
• These spasms may be caused by medical conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), as well as spinal cord diseases or injuries.
• If a person misses a dose of baclofen, they should take the dose as soon as they remember.
• It is important to report those side effects to a doctor immediately.

Usually, for muscle spasms, the medicine is administered through a pump that delivers the medication directly to the spinal cord. Side effects of the pump are considered to be much less compared to when it is taken in the oral form. Therefore, the pump is prescribed to individuals who have trouble tolerating its oral forms. If you are suffering from a baclofen addiction treatment, know that hope is not lost. Baclofen addiction treatment usually consists of detox, some form of inpatient or outpatient treatment, support groups, and aftercare.

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Nonetheless, it is important to remember that many other factors also contribute to addiction. These include a drug’s inherent ability to cause addiction, a person’s genetics, and environmental factors. Dependence occurs when a person cannot function normally without using a drug. An addictive substance can cause physical or psychological dependence, or both.

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Due to its addictive and dependence impacts, this class of drugs has been at the center of national and global focus in recent years. Even people with its prescription for pain relief can become is baclofen habit forming addicted to it. As a doctor explains administering baclofen to a patient, it is normal that they would want to ask if it is a narcotic.

Group, family, and individual therapy structures give people the care they need to have individual support, the support of others who struggle with addiction, and the support of family members. Using multiple types of therapy to treat each person’s unique needs, therapists help them learn the keys to break the cycle of addiction. This is the first and most critical step in successful treatment. Detox involves letting the body cleanse itself of the substance. There can be unpleasant or even dangerous withdrawal symptoms during this time, which is why medical supervision is essential. Tolerance happens when a person’s brain and body do not respond in the same way they did when they started taking a substance.

Alternatives to the 12-step program that offers social reinforcement as you maintain sobriety when you transition out of recovery. Baclofen acts by inhibiting both monosynaptic and polysynaptic reflexes in the spinal cord. This is achieved by hyperpolarisation of the primary afferent neurones resulting in muscle relaxation. Outpatient programs are ideal for those who have attained substantial sobriety. Instead, you will have to visit the facility 3 to 4 times and spend a few hours during each visit.

Yes, and it is important to understand how to identify baclofen abuse and its dangers. It is also proposed that this action is made possible by the fact that baclofen and alcohol act on similar brain systems in certain regions of the brain. One of the main reasons a doctor can use Lioresal for alcohol use disorder is because it helps to reduce the compulsion to drink. Medical professionals have discovered that using it for alcohol cravings helps to stop drinking. It has been found to completely switch off the thirst for alcohol in patients diagnosed with alcohol addiction.

Treatment for Baclofen Abuse

Baclofen for anxiety is an off-label use, so getting professional medical assistance from a doctor is crucial. No, baclofen isn’t classified as a controlled substance in the United States. This means it’s not considered to have the same high risk of abuse as other medications. While baclofen can lead to physical dependence if used long-term, it’s not tightly regulated like some other prescription drugs. Baclofen is a prescription drug that individuals can use to treat muscle spasms.

With our treatment programs, comfortable atmosphere, and understanding staff, Sana Lake offers people hope and healing. Before taking this drug, a person should notify the doctor of any underlying health conditions and any medications or supplements they are taking. They should also tell the doctor if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. Our outpatient care helps you to stay at home while rehabilitating daily. It is a perfect choice if you can’t take time away from your family, pet, education, career, and other functions.