Baclofen is a muscle relaxant medication used to treat muscle spasticity and associated pain in the context of various neurological conditions. It is not a controlled substance and can be obtained with a prescription. Despite not being a controlled substance, baclofen use can cause risks. As such, it should always be used as prescribed and not given to anyone without a prescription.
- Baclofen is a muscle relaxant that helps to relieve spasms, clonus, and pain in the muscles.
- Baclofen is not a controlled substance as it is not considered to be a drug of abuse.
- Baclofen use can lead to risks and the development of dependence, so it is important to use it exactly as prescribed.
Is baclofen a controlled substance?
Baclofen is not a controlled substance. The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) lists substances within Schedules I-V, depending on their accepted medical uses and potential for abuse and dependence, with Schedule I being deemed the most harmful. It informs federal policies relating to the possession and distribution of illicit and prescribed drugs. [4]
Baclofen is a muscle relaxant used to treat muscle spasticity in the context of various neurological conditions, including multiple sclerosis and spinal cord lesions. These conditions are often treated with baclofen tablets or oral liquid. [1] Symptoms that are not managed by high oral doses or alternative treatments may require intrathecal baclofen. This is administered directly into the spinal cord through a pump that is implanted in the body. [2]
More recently, studies have indicated that baclofen may be beneficial in the treatment of alcohol use disorder to reduce alcohol cravings and anxiety. Currently, this use is not approved, although studies and reviews are ongoing. [2][3]
Why isn't baclofen controlled?
Baclofen isn’t listed as a controlled substance as it is not deemed to have potential for abuse and addiction.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) are the governing bodies responsible for determining whether a substance should be added, moved, or removed from this list. The FDA and DEA have not determined baclofen to be a drug of abuse, nor to have any potential for dependence or addiction. [4]
Misconception: Is baclofen a narcotic?
Baclofen is not a narcotic. Narcotics are opioid medications used to treat moderate to severe pain, such as codeine and morphine. Baclofen can help to relieve pain, but it is classed as a skeletal muscle relaxant rather than an opioid, so it is not in the same class as narcotics.
Potential for abuse and dependence
Despite not being listed on the CSA, there is some potential for baclofen use to lead to dependence. Research shows that the discontinuation of baclofen can result in withdrawal symptoms, indicating the development of some degree of physical dependence. [2][5]
Baclofen withdrawal symptoms can be severe and dangerous, particularly when use is stopped abruptly after more than two months of treatment. This can include impaired mental status, severe rebound spasticity, hallucinations, and seizures. Withdrawal symptoms are often more severe in those using intrathecal baclofen. [5]
Additionally, in the last decade, there has been an increasing awareness of baclofen misuse and abuse. It has been reported to have been administered in various ways, including ingestion, nasal inhalation, and sublingual use. [6] Baclofen is misused because of its relaxant and pain relief action. This is thought to contribute to a feeling of euphoria or high, particularly when combined with other substances, and in some cases of psychological dependence. [6]
Withdrawal considerations when using baclofen
People using baclofen should not suddenly stop taking their medication, as this can result in withdrawal symptoms. If it is deemed medically appropriate to stop treatment, doses should be reduced gradually to help prevent withdrawal. [1]
Withdrawal can be more severe following intrathecal baclofen treatment and may occur due to faulty pump distribution. It is important to be aware of the signs of baclofen withdrawal when utilizing this treatment, so that it can be recognized and managed urgently. [5]
Without intervention, withdrawal from intrathecal baclofen can be life-threatening. Often, resuming the dose can alleviate withdrawal symptoms, although additional treatment may be required to manage symptoms. [2][5]
Prescription regulations
People who take baclofen tablets or oral liquid will receive a prescription that can be refilled when required. Typically, people on baclofen treatment will have regular medication reviews with their physician to monitor their condition and check the effectiveness of the medication. If the dose needs adjusting, a new prescription will be written. [2]
People who have the intrathecal baclofen pump will require regular reviews with a healthcare provider to check the effectiveness of their treatment and adjust the dosage if necessary. Typically, the pump will be refilled by a professional after the dose has been reviewed. [2][5]
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