Baclofen
Baclofen is a muscle relaxant medication primarily used to treat muscle spasticity caused by conditions such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, or other neurological disorders. It works by acting on the central nervous system to reduce the frequency and severity of muscle spasms and stiffness. This medication is typically prescribed when physical therapy alone is insufficient to manage spasticity symptoms.
Baclofen is a prescription muscle relaxant used to treat spasticity from MS, spinal cord injuries, and other neurological conditions.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- M03BX01
- RxNorm
- 1292
- Generic
- Baclofen
- Class
- atc-m03
- Brands
- Gablofen, Lioresal, Ozobax, Lyvispah, Fleqsuvy
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- injection, prefilled syringe, solution, tablet, suspension
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 20mg three times daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 8 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 10mg three times daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 8 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 5mg three times daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 8 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
7 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
use only if benefits outweigh risks to fetus
regular prenatal monitoring and fetal ultrasound
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second third trimesterreduce dose if needed
monitor closely and discontinue if adverse effects occur
fetal growth monitoring and regular check-ups
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedinguse with caution
monitor infant for excessive drowsiness and respiratory depression
observe infant for sedation, feeding difficulties, and respiratory status
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlystart with lower dose
increase dose slowly and monitor for adverse effects
monitor for excessive sedation, dizziness, and falls
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
under 12 yearsweight-based dosing required
not recommended for children under 12 years orally; intrathecal form for ages 4-16
monitor for seizures and respiratory depression
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severe renal impairmentsignificant dose reduction required
avoid use in severe renal impairment or reduce dose by at least 50%
frequent monitoring of renal function and drug accumulation
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
hepatic_impairment
moderate hepatic impairmentuse with caution
monitor liver function tests and adjust dose if needed
regular liver function monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
FDA approval information for Baclofen
Drug class
Drug class information
Primary indication
Primary therapeutic use
Mechanism of action
Pharmacological mechanism
Baclofen is used to treat muscle spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, and other conditions affecting the central nervous system. It may also be prescribed for severe hiccups and certain types of muscle pain.
Baclofen acts as a GABA-B receptor agonist in the spinal cord and brain. It inhibits the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, which helps reduce the transmission of signals that cause muscle contraction, thereby decreasing muscle spasticity and stiffness.
Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and weakness. Baclofen should not be stopped abruptly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms including seizures and hallucinations. Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medication as it can increase drowsiness. Patients should follow their healthcare provider's instructions carefully regarding dosing and discontinuation.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy