Baclofen is not a controlled substance in the United States, however, baclofen misuse can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is misusing can baclofen be abused baclofen, it’s important to understand the side effects, dangers, and treatment options for baclofen use disorder. A person prescribed baclofen may begin misusing it over time to strengthen its effects.

Baclofen Addiction, Abuse, and Treatment

Muscle relaxants may be prescribed to manage rebound muscle spasticity, while anti-anxiety medications can help alleviate feelings of anxiety or agitation. A 36 years old Hindu, literate married male patient from urban background took treatment for alcohol dependence and recovered well. He was better but often on, he used to drink alcohol along with his medication baclofen. On enquiry he was found to be having moderate depression with sleep problem for last 1 year.

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If they’re conscious, try and prevent them from taking any more drugs in the meantime. Since this drug treats the symptoms of addiction and not the addiction itself, patients are likely to swap one addiction for another. Do you suspect someone of your life of struggling with baclofen abuse? Read on to discover what signs to check for and what you can do to help. Long-term residential treatment provides structured care in the therapeutic community or a sober living home. The treatment aims to resocialize addicted individuals and helps them reintegrate into society with minimal problems.

• A treatment center will attempt to verify your health insurance benefits and/or necessary authorizations on your behalf.
• The medicine works as a supportive treatment by helping patients’ nerves relax.
• Medical detox provides professional assistance and medication-assisted treatment to ensure that you’re comfortable and safe throughout the duration of your baclofen detox program.
• Our state-specific resource guides offer a comprehensive overview of drug and alcohol addiction treatment options available in your area.
• Baclofen for anxiety is an off-label use, so getting professional medical assistance from a doctor is crucial.
• Baclofen has been shown to cause abuse, dependence, and withdrawal.
• Still, many professionals find it beneficial, especially when standard treatments like other medications or behavioral therapies aren’t enough.

Signs and Symptoms of Baclofen Abuse

We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. Baclofen is a gamma-aminobutyric acid type B receptor agonist used as an anti-craving agent for treatment of alcohol dependence. It has gained popularity in the recent times because it is well tolerated even in patients with hepatic impairments.

People Experience Withdrawal After Baclofen Abuse

• If you or anyone you know is undergoing a severe health crisis, call a doctor or 911 immediately.
• Long-term treatment, even after the blood levels have normalized, is necessary.
• Ultimately, the effects of addiction can lead to all sorts of devastating problems like getting fired or being evicted.
• The difference in the certainty of evidence ratings was likely the result of inclusion of different studies and possible differences in the methodologies for grading evidence.
• I understand that I am not required to provide my consent as a condition of purchasing any products or services.
• This means that, while the FDA has approved baclofen for treating the above conditions, it’s also prescribed to treat conditions not yet approved by the FDA.
• It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.

Kamal et al.7) have reported baclofen abuse up to 80 mg with gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) for sedative and anxiogenic effects, which resulted in fatal overdose. In a case study from India by Das et al.8) a 24-year-old male abused baclofen up to 600 mg/day with euphorient effects. Outpatient treatment is considered the least intensive level of care. With outpatient treatment, you may be asked to attend therapy sessions throughout the week and have regular appointments with your healthcare providers. However, it is much less structured than a partial hospitalization program.

Medical supervision is crucial during this detox process, especially for individuals with a history of dependence or other medical conditions that may complicate withdrawal. Here we are presenting a case of baclofen abuse in a patient with alcohol dependence with comorbid major depressive disorder who reported to have used baclofen in order to overcome his depression. Aftercare is designed to support sober people who have already completed detox and rehab and are looking for continued support as they re-enter society as a sober individual. People who are recovering from baclofen addiction may find aftercare to be particularly helpful in warding off relapse and coping with high-risk situations or triggers in early recovery. Chronic misuse of baclofen can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Baclofen withdrawal can be deadly if a person suddenly stops taking it after taking it regularly for a period of time.

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People who have taken too much baclofen may show outward signs like vertigo, problems breathing, and a loss of consciousness. Baclofen abuse can begin when someone has a legitimate prescription for the drug. Then, over time, someone may show signs of abuse, such as taking higher doses than prescribed or taking baclofen more often than prescribed. People who abuse baclofen may combine it with other substances, use it without a prescription, or use baclofen in any way outside prescribing instructions. Baclofen abuse can increase the likelihood of addiction and dependence. Seeking treatment for baclofen abuse may not be easy, but avoiding the severe and dangerous side effects of misuse, overdose, and withdrawal is essential.

State Rehab Guides

Baclofen side effects are typically mild, though certain situations can be more serious. Most people get a normal dosage schedule from their doctor, but it’s important to understand both common and severe side effects. By clicking the “Check Insurance Coverage” button and submitting this form, I affirm that I have read and agree to this Site’s Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent to receive SMS text messages to my cell number provided above for notifications, alerts, and general communication purposes including promotions from a paid advertiser.

Even if you have a prescription, it is still possible to misuse the drug. Baclofen abuse happens whenever you are taking more baclofen than prescribed. Some people with a baclofen addiction may quit taking their prescription regularly so that they can use one massive dose at once.