ICNApedia - 5. Oral Medications for the Treatment of Spasticity

Article Index

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 8 of 18

73-158

Benzodiazepines have a wide margin of safety. However, they can produce CNS depression with a resultant sedation, respiratory depression and inhibition of cardiovascular function. Paradoxical irritability can occur.

True physiological withdrawal can develop. A withdrawal syndrome has been described and consists of the following: agitation, anxiety, restlessness, tremor, muscle fasciculation and twitching, insomnia, nightmares, seizures, hyperpyrexia and hallucinations.

Paradoxical sleep disorders can also occur. Patients may also experience increased oral secretions. When weaning from this medication, taper over 3 to 6 months.