Product Description

Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg belong to a class of medicines called muscle relaxants (specifically, GABA-B receptor agonists). They are used to reduce and relieve muscle spasms (spasticity or excessive muscle tension) associated with neurological conditions. Muscle spasms occur due to sudden, involuntary contractions, often caused by damage or interruption of nerve impulses controlling muscle movements, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Baclofen acts primarily on the spinal cord (and to a lesser extent on the brain) to inhibit abnormal nerve signals, helping maintain muscle strength while relieving spasms and stiffness. It is indicated for spasticity in conditions such as multiple sclerosis (a disorder affecting the brain and spinal cord), cerebrovascular accidents (stroke, due to reduced blood supply to the brain), cerebral palsy (affecting movement, posture, and muscle tone), spinal cord injuries or diseases, and other central nervous system disorders.

Uses

Treatment of muscle spasms (spasticity) due to multiple sclerosis, stroke, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, or other neurological disorders

How it works

Baclofen works by mimicking the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) and activating GABA-B receptors in the spinal cord. This inhibits the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, reducing monosynaptic and polysynaptic reflexes at the spinal level. As a result, it decreases muscle tone, relieves spasms and stiffness, and improves muscle movement without causing complete muscle weakness.

Benefits

• Effectively reduces muscle spasms and stiffness in neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis, stroke, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injuries

• Relieves associated pain and improves mobility, particularly in the limbs (e.g., ankle, hip, knee)

• Helps restore functional muscle movement and daily activities

• Does not cause muscle atrophy or loss of strength when used appropriately

• Off-label uses include treatment of persistent hiccups or symptoms of Tourette's syndrome (uncontrollable movements or sounds), but only under medical supervision

• Note: Baclofen is not effective for muscle spasms caused by peripheral conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or Parkinson's disease

How to use

• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water or milk; do not crush, chew, or break it.
• Take as prescribed by your doctor, usually starting with a low dose (e.g., 5 mg) and gradually increasing to minimize side effects.
• It can be taken with or without food, but consistency in timing helps maintain steady levels.
• For liquid formulations (if prescribed), shake well and use a measuring device for accurate dosing. Do not abruptly stop; taper under medical guidance.

Side Effects

Baclofen dose side effects

• Drowsiness or sleepiness

• Fatigue or weakness

• Nausea

• Headache

• Dry mouth

• Dizziness

• Confusion (especially in elderly patients)

• Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., constipation)

Safety Advice

• Avoid alcohol while taking Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg, as it can intensify drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.

• Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed (FDA pregnancy category C); consult your doctor, as benefits must outweigh potential risks to the fetus.

• Caution in patients with kidney impairment (dose adjustment required), epilepsy, or psychiatric disorders, as it may worsen seizures or cause hallucinations.

• Do not stop suddenly; abrupt withdrawal can lead to severe symptoms like muscle rigidity, hallucinations, seizures, or high fever. Taper gradually over 1-2 weeks under medical supervision.

• Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you, due to sedative effects.

• Inform your doctor of all medications to avoid interactions (e.g., with other CNS depressants like opioids or benzodiazepines).

Storage Conditions

• Store at temperatures below 30°C (86°F).

FAQs

What is the use of Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg?

They are used to treat muscle spasms (spasticity) in conditions like multiple sclerosis, stroke, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injuries.

How does Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg work?

It acts on the spinal cord and brain to inhibit nerve reflexes, reducing muscle stiffness and spasms while preserving strength.

Do Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg cause drowsiness?

Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg cause sleepiness and drowsiness. So, drive only if you are alert and omit driving or operating machinery if you feel sleepy or drowsy.

Do Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg cause dry mouth?

Dry mouth could be a side effect of Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg. Limiting caffeine intake, avoiding smoking and mouthwashes containing alcohol, drinking water regularly, and chewing sugar-free gum/candy might help in stimulating saliva and thereby prevent drying of the mouth.

Can I stop taking Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg if I feel well?

No, do not stop without consulting your doctor. Sudden discontinuation can cause serious withdrawal symptoms like seizures, hallucinations, or muscle rigidity. Your doctor will taper the dose gradually.

In which conditions should I avoid using Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg?

Avoid if you need sustained muscle tone for balance (e.g., certain sports or activities). Use caution in epilepsy, kidney disease, or with alcohol/CNS depressants. It may impair reactions, so avoid hazardous tasks.

Can Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg make you sleepy?

Yes, it can make you go into a deep sleep.

Do Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg help anxiety?

Baclofen Tablets IP 10 mg may reduce anxiety but not depression levels. However, it is not intended for anxiety levels.