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What are the side effects of baclofen?

Baclofen (brand name Lioresal) is a medicine used to treat the muscle spasms, cramping, and tightness that affect many people with multiple sclerosis, spinal cord conditions, or tardive dyskinesia. It relaxes muscles by acting on the brain and spinal cord.

Commonly reported side effects of baclofen include drowsiness, dizziness, trouble sleeping, and muscle weakness. These side effects usually go away over time as treatment continues and your body adjusts to the medicine. Less common side effects include diarrhea and stomach pain.

High doses or sudden withdrawal of baclofen may occasionally cause hallucinations, blurred vision, double vision, seizures, or an increase in muscle spasms. If you experience any of these effects, contact your doctor. You may need an adjustment to your dosage of baclofen. Sudden withdrawal of the intrathecal injection form of baclofen can result in serious side effects or even death.

Sources:
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2006.
Drug Information Handbook. American Pharmaceutical Association, 1999.
Medline Plus. Medline, 2006.
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2006.
USP-DI Advice for the Patient: Drug Information in Lay Language. Micromedex Inc., 1998

This answer prepared 8/8/2000.
This information updated 1/25/2007.