Baclofen Addiction Treatment & Abuse Warning Signs
It has also been studied for its potential use in managing opioid, cocaine, and tobacco dependence, although more research is needed to determine its effectiveness in these areas. It belongs to a group of medications known as muscle relaxants, which work by blocking nerve signals in the spinal cord that cause muscle contractions. Search engine results can show confusing information at first glance because of some of the medication’s uses. In recent years, professionals have been using baclofen for addiction treatment. Studies show that baclofen can be just as effective as diazepam in treating the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.
Where Should an Overdose be Treated?
It has shown promise in clinical trials for treating alcohol and opioid addictions, though official FDA approval for addiction treatment is still pending. Still, many professionals find it beneficial, especially when standard treatments like other medications or behavioral therapies aren’t enough. In addition to its ability to curb cravings, Lioresal is also used as a minor tranquilizer, producing an anxiolytic effect. It is used to reduce anxiety as that is one of the main reasons patients resist alcohol addiction.
Drug Addiction
It is quickly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak plasma concentration within one to three hours. The drug has a plasma half-life of two to four hours and undergoes minimal liver metabolism. Baclofen is also available as compounding powders and oral suspensions.
Patients should not switch between medications or stop Lioresal on their own. Scientists got a success rate of 68.2%, but only 43 patients were tested in the study. Another study showed similar results with a success rate of 56.8% in 320 patients. Our compassionate counselors are standing by to answer any questions you may have. During the confidential evaluation, Discovery’s clinicians will determine the appropriate level of care for you.
Is Baclofen Safe?
If you’ve been looking for addiction treatment resources and services, allow us to help you. At Sana Lake, you can find what you have been searching for and gain the skills you need to overcome substance use disorder in your life. Firstly, being in a group setting can help to make individuals aware of the fact that they are far from alone.
Understanding Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment: An Integrated Approach to Mental Health and Addiction
While these aren’t usually severe, it’s important to call a doctor if they become intense or don’t go away. Although these side effects aren’t usually life-threatening, it’s smart to inform a doctor if they become bothersome or don’t go away. AddictionResource aims to present the most accurate, trustworthy, and up-to-date medical content to our readers.
Because you will go through an intense detox during your baclofen addiction treatment, it is wise to attend an inpatient or residential treatment program afterward. That way you can receive the 24/7 care that you’ll need to remain sober after treatment is done. It’s important to note that the more severe side effects of baclofen are not as likely to occur as the moderate symptoms. Still, individuals should also consult medical professional advice when it comes to using any sort of medication, including baclofen. This will ensure that people are using it safely and effectively without danger of severe and serious effects.
For this reason, it’s highly recommended that anyone experiencing misuse of baclofen undergo medication-assisted treatment, starting with medical detox. Baclofen may also be used to relieve other conditions as determined by your doctor. Baclofen does not cure these problems, but it may allow other treatment, such as physical therapy, to be more helpful in improving your condition. In addition to its approved indications, baclofen is sometimes used off-label for the management of certain substance use disorders. Research has shown that baclofen can be helpful in reducing alcohol cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it a potential treatment option for alcohol dependence.
So, it only seems fitting that, since using this medication for addiction treatment is still in the experimental stage, people would wonder about its qualities and characteristics. Learning about whether or not baclofen is addictive and gaining more information about baclofen withdrawal can be helpful for those who are wondering about this treatment method. This medication works to relieve pain and it operates as muscle relaxers.
- If you are using the oral solution (Ozobax), measure your dose using a device.
- Monitor for signs and symptoms of baclofen withdrawal if the dose is reduced or discontinued 29.
- If you are nursing an infant, talk to your doctor before taking this drug.
- Intrathecal baclofen use requires careful attention to program the infusion pump and monitor its function, pump alarms, and refill schedules 30.
There have been many reports and claims of baclofen helping with addiction treatment since that time. However, a 2017 study notes that doctors may prescribe the drug off-label to help treat comorbid alcohol use disorder and anxiety disorder. Individuals who are suffering from baclofen dependence can find hope and healing here at Sana Lake Recovery Center. Through our services and programs, those who are struggling will have access to professional treatment and resources that can help guide the way to recovery. Outpatient treatment is considered the least intensive level of care.
Other Medical Problems
People with kidney problems or kidney disease may have issues clearing baclofen from their bodies. As a result, the levels of baclofen in your body when taking it could reach higher than normal levels and cause side effects. To counterbalance this, your doctor may prescribe you a lower than normal dosage of baclofen to start. Baclofen can interact with other drugs, and this may increase the risk of side effects. The doctor will also need to be aware if the person is pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding.
For those who require more structured support, inpatient rehabilitation offers a comprehensive treatment environment. This residential approach provides intensive therapy, both in individual and group settings, and includes various educational and therapeutic activities. These programs are designed to address not only the physical aspects of addiction but also the psychological ones, helping to build a strong foundation for recovery. Recognizing the signs of baclofen abuse is crucial in order to seek help and prevent further is baclofen addictive harm.
If you’re taking baclofen for addiction recovery and suspect misuse—or if a loved one on baclofen shows signs of misuse—help is accessible. Whether you are looking to receive addiction treatment for baclofen or some other substance or mental health issue, Discovery Institute is here to help. To learn more about the addiction treatment services that we provide, contact us today.
The withdrawal period is when your brain and body adjust to not having baclofen in your system. The withdrawal process can be uncomfortable both physically and mentally. In fact, it can cause relapse because of the intense side effects and cravings that most people experience during withdrawal.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
After detox, you can then attend our very effective residential or intensive outpatient treatment program. If you are suffering from a mental illness on top of your addiction, we also offer dual diagnosis treatment. We even provide numerous different forms of individual therapy and group therapy.