Is Baclofen Addictive?

Since both alcohol and baclofen are central nervous system depressants, mixing them can heighten both of their effects to dangerous levels. While this might be done purposefully, it can have negative effects such as extreme levels of drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, changes in mood, and agitation. Mixing the two can also result in an increase in blood pressure and heart rate and even cause seizures. To learn more about our treatment options for baclofen addiction and to take the first step towards a healthier and more fulfilling life, reach out to Avenues Recovery. Our highly experienced and professional staff are here to provide the support and guidance you need to overcome addiction and embrace a brighter future.

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Baclofen Side Effects –  Oral

As such, doctors recommend tapering the dose off gradually over 2–4 weeks to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Baclofen is a muscle baclofen addictive relaxant and antispasmodic drug that helps alleviate muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain. Doctors may also prescribe baclofen for MS, spinal cord injury, and other conditions of the CNS. In cases where users have developed an addiction to the medication, rehab centers are helpful. Various addiction treatment programs exist, making sure that each patient can successfully recover and stop drug abuse.

If you or anyone you know is undergoing a severe health crisis, call a doctor or 911 immediately. The primary function of Lioresal in alcohol addiction treatment is to help curb the craving and, as such, increase the dopamine level. Most notably, the injectable form comes with a boxed warning on the label. Boxed warnings (or black box warnings) inform prescribers about the potentially fatal risks of a prescription drug. 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.

• Research has observed significant inter-individual variability in baclofen’s absorption and elimination processes.
• By increasing the body’s dopamine levels, baclofen helps people feel better when dealing with cravings.
• Baclofen may also be known by other brand names such as Lioresal and Kemstro.
• Administration of baclofen with any other central nervous system depressants requires close monitoring.
• If you find yourself suffering from a baclofen addiction, the good news is that there are treatment options available for you.
• But addiction treatment professionals are finding a use for this drug on the rehab scene as well.
• Baclofen is used to reduce cravings in alcohol abuse and heavy smoking.

Risks of Taking Baclofen

Combining these substances can also lead to severe health issues, including respiratory depression and seizures. While baclofen has been very helpful in treating various conditions, it does carry a risk of addiction and abuse. One study revealed that individuals using baclofen for addiction treatment reported a feeling of euphoria, a ‘Baclofen high’, similar to that induced by marijuana or alcohol. Though it is not a controlled substance, the drug’s potential for tolerance and physical dependence adds to the development of addiction.

An Unusual Case of Baclofen Abuse

Using Baclofen while you are pregnant may cause neonatal withdrawal syndrome in your newborn babies. Tell your doctor right away if your baby has shakiness or tremors, seizures, or increased muscle tone. Do not suddenly stop using baclofen without checking first with your doctor. You may need to slowly decrease your dose before stopping it completely. Unwanted side effects (eg, hallucinations, seizures, high fever, rhabdomyolysis) may occur if baclofen is stopped suddenly. If you notice that your tolerance to baclofen has increased, speak to your doctor right away.

• ” After all, individuals often find themselves wondering if MAT, in general, is effective as it uses prescription drugs to help people end substance dependence.
• Baclofen should not be prescribed with other tricyclic antidepressants, as the combination can cause depressed brain function and muscle weakness.
• Experts worry that people may have started to take these drugs as an alternative to opioids.
• Since this drug treats the symptoms of addiction and not the addiction itself, patients are likely to swap one addiction for another.
• Unlike gabapentin, baclofen is not controlled throughout the US.

What is a baclofen pump?

Withdrawal from this drug can cause hallucinations, seizures, and even death. Mixing baclofen with other substances is dangerous because it can lead to severe side effects. It is also dangerous because it could cause baclofen to interact with other substances. Because of the calming effect and the feel-good increase in dopamine levels that baclofen has on the body, many people start misusing baclofen.

If you find yourself suffering from a baclofen addiction, the good news is that there are treatment options available for you. Just like with any other substance of abuse, baclofen addiction can be treated using traditional treatment methods. Just like with any prescribed substance, it is important to gradually increase or decrease your dosage gradually over time. Not doing so can result in your body growing dependent on the substance and ultimately developing an addiction. Taking baclofen in excess or combining it with other drugs or alcohol can produce a euphoric high that many users can get addicted to. There are certain signs and symptoms to look for that may indicate that you have ingested too much baclofen and may be experiencing an overdose.

Other medications used for anxiety treatment may require increasing amounts to continue building tolerance and might become a problem in the long run. 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. Baclofen medication for alcoholism produces an instant effect. The patient can choose to stop taking alcohol or continue to drink after completing alcohol treatment.

If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines. You doctor will reduce your dose gradually before stopping it completely. Using cannabis, heroin or methadone with baclofen will increase the drowsy effects of baclofen.