Baclofen

Last Reviewed: Jun 14, 2022

Warnings

What are the risks of taking baclofen (Ozobax)?

Baclofen can cause serious health problems in certain groups of people. You should talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or about other treatment options.
Kidney injury:

Risk factor: history of kidney disease
If you have kidney problems or a history of kidney disease, your kidney may not be able to clear baclofen out of your body sufficiently, causing an accumulation of the medication in your body, which can result in increased side effects. Your doctor may start you at a dose lower than the usual if you have kidney disease.

Withdrawal symptoms:

Risk factors: long-term use of baclofen; abrupt discontinuation of medication; newborns whose mother takes baclofen during pregnancy.

You should not discontinue baclofen suddenly, especially if you have been taking it for a long time. If you would like to discontinue baclofen, talk to your healthcare provider so the dose can be tapered down slowly. Abrupt discontinuation can cause severe health issues, including seizures and hallucinations.

If you are pregnant or plan to be pregnant, you should talk to your physician about this medication's risks and benefits. There are other safer options that do not cause withdrawal symptoms in newborns.

Stroke:

Risk factor: history of stroke
If you’ve had a stroke before, this medication is more likely to be less effective in treating muscle spasms while causing more side effects. You should talk to your healthcare provider about alternative treatment.

Impairment of thinking and concentration:

Risk factor: People over 65 years of age; Consuming alcohol or illicit drug; Taking other sedative medications; Taking baclofen with a full meal

Baclofen can cause drowsiness. Do not drive or operate hazardous machinery until you know how this medication affects you. This risk increases if you take it with a full meal or are over the age of 65. Do not drink alcohol or use illicit drugs while being on baclofen.

Seizure:

Risk factor: History of seizures
Baclofen may worsen your seizure (epilepsy). You should talk to your healthcare provider about other safer alternatives.

What should I tell my doctor before starting baclofen (Ozobax)?

To make sure this therapy is safe for you, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had:

Kidney disease
Stroke
Blood clots
Any seizure disorder
Any nervous system disorder
Psychosis or any mental health problem

This medication can also increase the risk of ovarian cysts. Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan to get pregnant, or breastfeed.

What proper medical care should I take while on baclofen (Ozobax)?

Keep all of your labs and follow-up appointments.
Do not discontinue therapy suddenly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
If you are using liquid baclofen, you should use an oral syringe or medicine cup for the most accurate dosing.

What drugs can interact with baclofen (Ozobax)?

Other muscle relaxers
Sleeping pills
Opioid pain relievers
Psychiatric medication for anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder
Blood pressure medications
Seizure medications

This is not a complete list. Other drugs, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, herbal supplements, and vitamins, may interact with baclofen. However, not all potential drug interactions are listed in this guide. You should keep a list of all drug products you are using (prescriptions, over-the-counter products, herbal supplements, natural products, and vitamins) and share it with your doctor.

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