Baclofen: Uses in Addiction Treatment & Side Effects

What is Baclofen?

Baclofen, also known by the brand names Kemstro and Lioresal, is a prescription muscle relaxant drug used to relieve muscle spasms, relieve pain, and improve muscle movement, primarily in the treatment of multiple sclerosis or spinal cord diseases and injuries.¹

Baclofen was originally designed as a drug for the treatment of epilepsy. GABAb Receptor Pharmacology reports that after first being synthesized in 1962, the drug was only minimally successful in the treatment of seizures, but it was widely used to decrease spasticity caused by a variety of diseases. In 2009, a cardiologist named Olivier Ameisen published a memoir detailing his own recovery from alcoholism using baclofen, and this led to subsequent investigations into the efficacy of the drug as a treatment for addiction.²

Prescribing baclofen to treat alcohol addiction and opioid addiction is still considered an “off-label” use of the medication, or a use outside of what is approved by the FDA, despite limited success in clinical trials.

Baclofen Use in Addiction Treatment

Baclofen may treat alcohol and drug addiction by altering the chemical processes responsible for substance addiction.

According to a research article in Frontiers in Psychiatry, the chemical makeup of this medication may mimic gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which has a calming effect on mood.³ This calming effect leads to an increase in dopamine levels, which is hypothesized to lessen cravings for the addictive substance.

However, additional clinical trials are needed to assess the efficacy of baclofen for addiction treatment.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) states that they do not currently recommend the use of baclofen in clinical patient settings due to a lack of sufficient data demonstrating the medication’s effectiveness for the purpose of addiction treatment. While some success has been shown in this area, use of the drug is still considered experimental by SAMHSA.

Baclofen Side Effects, Dosage & Interactions

Side effects are generally minimal and occur primarily when first starting treatment with this medication. Baclofen side effects may include:¹

• Drowsiness.
• Dizziness.
• Muscle weakness.
• Confusion.
• Upset stomach.

More severe side effects of this drug include difficulty breathing and seizures; medical help should be sought immediately if either of these side effects is experienced.¹

Baclofen Withdrawal Symptoms

Sudden withdrawal from baclofen can lead to the following symptoms:⁴

• Agitation.
• Confusion
• Hyperthermia.
• Hallucinations.
• Psychosis.

To prevent these withdrawal symptoms, the dosage of baclofen should be decreased under the guidance of a medical professional.

Baclofen Half-Life & Timeline

Baclofen is absorbed quickly from the gastrointestinal tract, and peak concentration in the bloodstream occurs about 1-3 hours after oral administration of the medication. Baclofen’s half-life is 3-4 hours in plasma, and its shelf life is three years from the date of manufacture. Oral tablets of the medication also contain lactose, pregelatinised maize starch, maize starch, magnesium stearate, and water.

Is Baclofen Addictive?

Baclofen misuse and addiction is considered very rare.⁵ However, as evidenced by the presence of withdrawal symptoms when use is ceased, the drug can cause physiological dependence when taken for extended periods. It is important to only use baclofen under the prescribed direction of a medical professional.

Finding a Treatment Plan That Works For You

Addiction treatment is a highly individualized process, and effective treatment centers tailor their programs to meet each patient’s unique needs. For some, this may involve medications for substance use disorder.⁶

Treatment approaches are decided by medical professionals with the patient’s health, living environment, history with substance use, and other factors in mind.

American Addiction Centers (AAC) facilities across the country offer individualized, evidence-based treatment through a variety of levels of care, including inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, medical detox, and more. Call to speak with a knowledgeable, compassionate admissions navigator and learn more about your options or to start treatment today.