It is particularly effective for conditions like certain spinal disorders and diseases affecting the spinal cord, such as multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries. Baclofen is a muscle relaxer that is used to treat muscle spasms, pain, and stiffness caused by injuries of the spinal cord, multiple sclerosis, and other issues related to the spine. It affects the body’s central nervous system and works by relaxing the user’s muscles. Baclofen is also currently being researched as a potential treatment option for alcohol addiction.

Baclofen Detox and Withdrawal

As per the Controlled Substance Act (CSA), there are Five drug schedules. Increasing the release of brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that block electrical activity in the brain and spinal cord. Nonetheless, baclofen addiction there is a substantial risk of many negative health consequences, including coma and death.

The Risks of Mixing Baclofen and Alcohol

Lioresal comes into play as a drug that allows clients not to feel the compulsion to take alcohol. In the case of mixing Lioresal and alcohol, it can cause dangerous effects in the person who combines them due to the depressant effects of both substances. High doses of baclofen are often needed to treat both addiction and medical issues. Due to these large doses, the body can become dependent on the drug. Later studies concluded that baclofen could not only reduce the rewarding effects of alcohol and opioids but also minimize the symptoms of withdrawal. Many programs offer aftercare to connect you to support groups, sober living options, or ongoing counseling.

Top 10 Best Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers in the US

Baclofen abuse can increase the likelihood of addiction and dependence. This may include a partial hospitalization program (PHP) or an intensive outpatient program (IOP). While these programs are not as intensive as residential treatment, they offer individuals the tools and resources they need in order to work toward a life that is free from substance use disorders. Should this occur in a person’s life, it is absolutely necessary to seek assistance from addiction treatment specialists. Through professional treatment programs, those who suffer from addiction can break free from substance use disorders. In addition to its ability to curb cravings, Lioresal is also used as a minor tranquilizer, producing an anxiolytic effect.

• Your care plan might include individual and group therapies, specialist visits, and more.
• Due to these large doses, the body can become dependent on the drug.
• People with chronic illnesses or persistent muscle pain are particularly at risk of tolerance—and possibly, misuse.
• Because of the calming effect and the feel-good increase in dopamine levels that baclofen has on the body, many people start misusing baclofen.
• When someone abuses baclofen—either by taking too much or mixing it with other drugs—they may feel a euphoria akin to mild intoxication or the effects of marijuana.
• Owing to the mood elevating property he started abusing baclofen.

Baclofen Addiction: Side Effects & Treatment Options Near Me

If your loved one appears unconscious and unresponsive, they could be suffering from a baclofen-induced coma. Severe and persistent drowsiness is a direct result of central nervous system depression. As the body is sedated by excessive baclofen, it can become harder to stay awake. When suffering from baclofen overdose, the human heart might see a significant decrease in beats per minute. Look for muscle weakness, vomiting, extreme drowsiness, pinpoint pupils, and slow or shallow breathing.

So, it only seems fitting that, since using this medication for addiction treatment is still in the experimental stage, people would wonder about its qualities and characteristics. Learning about whether or not baclofen is addictive and gaining more information about baclofen withdrawal can be helpful for those who are wondering about this treatment method. The patients tried and failed other addiction treatment methods. Although Lioresal is not a narcotic, a handful of cases demonstrating Lioresal addiction have been documented. The patient was given the drug in the pill form and eventually abused it, a behavior which the researchers attributed to the mood-elevating properties of the medication.

Baclofen Misuse

People who abuse baclofen may find the relaxing properties of the drug to be desirable. The effects of baclofen can be heightened when it’s combined with other drugs that depress the central nervous system, which increases the risk of dangerous or deadly side effects. Some of the general signs ofbaclofen abuseare difficult to distinguish from side effects resulting from normal use, such as dizziness, weakness, and drowsiness. Other signs of baclofen abuse can include central nervous system depression, insomnia, and fatigue.

• He continued for two months but there was no significant improvement.
• Baclofen side effects are typically mild, though certain situations can be more serious.
• Activating GABA slows down the electric signals of certain brain and muscle cells.
• Some people may also experience a false sense of well-being or mild euphoria when using this drug -which is why it has a potential for abuse.
• Baclofen is a pain medication that many people aren’t familiar with.

Baclofen has pain-relieving and muscle-relaxing qualities that make it susceptible to abuse. When someone abuses baclofen in high doses, it is possible that they will build a tolerance to the drug’s effects and eventually develop a physical dependence on it. The negative consequences that come from baclofen dependence are how addiction is measured. Baclofen is the generic name for a muscle relaxant that is prescribed under the brand names Gablofen® and Lioresal®. Baclofen can alleviate discomfort but can not cure muscle-related conditions. Here at Sana Lake Recovery Center, we understand the importance of helping people find freedom from substance use disorders.

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. Because the sudden stop of baclofen can lead to dangerous effects, it’s important to slowly wean yourself off of the medication during detox.

Start the road to recovery

Edmund has an extensive background in addiction research and medical writing, working collaboratively with doctors, substance use disorder specialists, and clinical experts across all content on Recovered. A baclofen pump is a method of administering the drug directly into the spinal fluid of patients. A baclofen pump requires invasive surgery to use and is not recommended for all patients suffering from spasticity. Read our guide to find out more about baclofen pumps and intrathecal baclofen treatment.