ICNApedia - 5. Oral Medications for the Treatment of Spasticity

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5. Oral Medications for the Treatment of Spasticity
Physiologic Basis of Antispasticity Medications
Spinal Effector Mechanisms
Myotactic Reflex
Primary and Secondary Antispasticity Drugs
Primary Oral/Systemic Agents: Diazepam
Primary Oral/Systemic Agents: Diazepam (cont)
Primary Oral/Systemic Agents: Diazepam (cont)
Primary Oral/Systemic Agents: Baclofen
Primary Oral/Systemic Agents: Baclofen (cont)
Primary Oral/Systemic Agents: Baclofen (cont)
Primary Oral/Systemic Agents: Dantrolene
Primary Oral/Systemic Agents: Dantrolene (cont)
Primary Oral/Systemic Agents: Dantrolene (cont)
Primary Oral/Systemic Agents: Tizanidine
Primary Oral/Systemic Agents: Tizanidine (cont)
Primary Oral/Systemic Agents: Tizanidine (cont)
Secondary Oral/Systemic Agents
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Page 11 of 18

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Potential side effects include CNS depression and weakness. The former may manifest as sedation, drowsiness, and fatigue. In patients with epilepsy, baclofen may decrease their seizure threshold. Baclofen-induced weakness may produce a deterioration in the ability of some patients to walk. In addition, orthostatic hypotension may occur.

Patients may also experience increased oral secretions. Elevations in transaminases have been reported and liver function tests should be monitored. The drug should never be stopped suddenly; sudden withdrawal may precipitate a syndrome that includes hallucinations, psychosis and seizures.

Baclofen Package Insert, 2000.