Abrupt discontinuation of an addictive drug causes many undesirable effects. Withdrawal from this drug can cause hallucinations, seizures, and even death. Dependence occurs when a person cannot function normally without using a drug. An addictive substance can cause physical or psychological dependence, or both.

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• As each body is unique, for some, it can cause nothing but slight discomfort.
• This type of program generally only lasts a few weeks, and it’s meant to help you through the most critical, dangerous parts of recovery known as the withdrawal period.
• Recovery Resource Center provides information on the best evidence-based treatment centers for people struggling with addiction and mental health.
• Baclofen is a gamma-aminobutyric acid type B receptor agonist used as an anti-craving agent for treatment of alcohol dependence.
• On the other hand, those with environmental triggers at home and/or lack of strong support will likely need a higher level of care.
• However, others might need professional Baclofen overdose treatment.

This usually involves tapering off doses over a period of time to reduce withdrawal symptoms and their severity. Lioresal is predominantly prescribed to control muscle spasms caused by spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, and other skeletal and muscular disorders. Usually, for muscle spasms, the medicine is administered through a pump that delivers the medication directly to the spinal cord.

Misusing Baclofen Often Causes Physical Health Problems

Both reviews found baclofen had limited impacts on other alcohol consumption outcomes and limited safety concerns, although common adverse events included fatigue and dizziness. While baclofen is used to ease muscle pain during addiction treatment (particularly for alcohol and opioid withdrawal) it also has the potential to be dependence and addiction-forming on its own. This means those using the medication to treat withdrawal symptoms should only do so under strict medical supervision. The authors did not find evidence that baclofen reduced the number of heavy drinking days or the number of drinks per drinking day. Baclofen abuse is common among those with mental health conditions. Since the drug can have a relaxing, anti-anxiety effect, some people might try to self-medicate by taking baclofen regularly.

Signs Your Loved One Is Struggling with Baclofen Abuse

• Addiction is marked by compulsive drug abuse despite the negative consequences it causes.
• It is prescribed for epilepsy, hot flashes, migraines, nerve damage, and more.
• If you are using the oral solution (Ozobax), measure your dose using a device.
• If someone in your life is displaying symptoms of baclofen addiction, help them seek formal treatment.
• Those without a prescription for baclofen may obtain it and take it because it relieves pain and relaxes the body, which can lead to feelings of elatedness in large quantities.

You might think treatment may not be necessary because baclofen abuse is not as dangerous as opioid can baclofen be abused addiction. However, treatment is essential to not only live a drug-free life but also to reduce the risk of overdose and death. We may have expected that to translate into fewer drug abuse problems.

Comparison 1: Baclofen Compared With Placebo

Treatment of overdose on Baclofen consists of supportive care involving IV fluids, mechanical ventilation, and endotracheal intubation. Baclofen (brand name Lioresal among others) is used as a muscle relaxer to control muscular rigidity and clonus caused by injuries and other medical conditions. The medicine works by blocking or reducing the signals generated by the nerves that cause muscular tension and rigidity. Once those signals are suppressed, muscles can relax and calm down. Contact the caring team at Recovery Resource Center for assistance and resources on addiction, treatment centers, and more.

Finding Addiction Treatment for Baclofen in Atlanta

Some people also encounter digestive issues and baclofen abuse may lead to constipation or frequent urination. Baclofen is a type of muscle relaxer frequently prescribed for chronic muscle pain. Compared to opiates and other painkillers, baclofen is a reasonably safe drug with little risk of addiction. Just like any other muscle relaxer, baclofen does have some potential for abuse. If you regularly misuse baclofen, you may encounter a variety of issues.

It’s available in both a tablet and liquid form taken orally or an injectable form, which has the strongest effects. Signs of overdose include muscle weakness, hypothermia, and a dangerously slow heart rate. A baclofen pump is a method of administering the drug directly into the spinal fluid of patients. A baclofen pump requires invasive surgery to use and is not recommended for all patients suffering from spasticity. Read our guide to find out more about baclofen pumps and intrathecal baclofen treatment. Always seek medical attention when attempting to quit baclofen use after prolonged exposure.