Most notably, the injectable form comes with a boxed warning on the label. Boxed warnings (or black box warnings) inform prescribers about the potentially fatal risks of a prescription drug. Drugs with the highest abuse potential are included in Schedule I. Examples of Schedule I controlled substances include heroin, LSD, and ecstasy.

• While bacolofen has benefits in the treatment of addiction, it does carry a risk of side effects and addiction potential.
• Whether you’re looking for treatment or for aftercare options, we can point you in the right direction.
• Side effects of baclofen addiction include confusion, drowsiness, and dizziness.
• However, some research suggests that baclofen may have potential as an alternative treatment for certain types of addiction.

Here at Sana Lake Recovery Center, we understand the importance of helping people find freedom from substance use disorders. Our team offers compassionate and comprehensive care to those who are working to end drug and alcohol use. So, whether you are suffering from addiction or you are struggling to maintain freedom from this disorder, we’re here to help. The experimental use of baclofen is swiftly catching on and becoming more and more of a topic of discussion.

Baclofen is currently being studied to help treataddiction, particularly for alcohol addiction. When abusing baclofen, either by consuming an excess amount or mixing it with alcohol or other substances, it can make someone feel euphoric when high. Baclofen users who seek this sensation often mix drugs with opioids, alcohol, or amphetamines.

Otherwise known as low blood pressure, this can cause a person to become dizzy and faint. Its sedating, anti-anxiety properties can encourage a patient to believe they only feel better while on the drug, and often causes an increase in the frequency and number of doses taken. In 2004, a cardiologist from France discovered that baclofen suppressed the alcohol-induced release of dopamine from the brain. Currently, studies have not proven that the drug helps with opiate or cannabis addiction. Call 24/7 to have a discussion with one of our treatment professionals the call is completely free.

Baclofen as a treatment for alcohol use disorders (AUD)

And more often, users mix baclofen with other, stronger drugs or with alcohol to intensify the effects of the drug. Just as with any drug, it is not safe to take baclofen in doses larger than those prescribed by a licensed pharmacist or physician or to mix it with other drugs or alcohol. Safely stopping the medicine depends on a systematic tapering plan under the direction of a medical expert. Professional addiction treatment programs, which offer medical monitoring and support to simplify the process, could help patients suffering from withdrawal issues.

Because of the calming effect and the feel-good increase in dopamine levels that baclofen has on the body, many people start misusing baclofen. One way that people misuse baclofen is by taking more than what is prescribed to them. For example, if allergic to baclofen, you could develop trouble breathing and/or swelling of your throat or tongue. Taking baclofen again after a severe allergic reaction could lead to death.

In severe cases, baclofen use can lead to seizures or breathing problems. If you are physically dependent on baclofen, you will experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit. Baclofen withdrawal can be very dangerous or even deadly if you don’t have immediate access to medical assistance in the event of an emergency. People who abuse baclofen may also consume it with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol to enhance the high. Taking a high dose of baclofen on its own may also cause overdose, which may result in coma or death. A person prescribed baclofen may begin misusing it over time to strengthen its effects.

Baclofen: Is It Addictive or an Addiction Aid?

However, the question about the addictiveness of baclofen remains viable. That being said, it’s still important to use it exactly as prescribed to avoid any complications, especially with long-term use. Misuse is uncommon, but it’s always best to follow your doctor’s guidance to stay safe. Baclofen does not have any knownstreet nameseven though the drug has been around as a prescription medication since 1977 in the United States. These side effects can make anyone more at risk of death and getting emergency medical help is advised as soon as possible.

Baclofen is also available as compounding powders and oral suspensions. Most studies have shown that it has something to do with the way in which baclofen interacts with the GABA receptors in the brain. Expired medication may not work as intended and could lead to unexpected side effects. Outpatient programs are ideal for those who have attained substantial sobriety.

Baclofen withdrawal

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. Side effects of the pump are considered to be much less compared to when it is taken in the oral form. Therefore, the pump is prescribed to individuals who have trouble tolerating its oral forms. If you or someone you know is struggling with baclofen addiction, it is essential to seek professional treatment from a medical professional or an addiction treatment center. If you are suffering from a baclofen addiction treatment, know that hope is not lost.

Levels of Care

This may induce bradycardia or an extremely slow heartbeat, elevated blood pressure, sluggish reflexes, or coma. For these reasons, people are advised to keep baclofen away from kids or teens, including anybody who has no prescription for it. Baclofen activates GABA receptors, which inhibit nerve activity and soothe the nervous system. Prolonged use of baclofen downregulates these receptors, leading the body to depend on the medication to sustain normal nerve function. When baclofen is abruptly stopped, the nervous system may become hyperactive, resulting in a rebound effect and withdrawal symptoms. Those on long-term Baclofen therapy might worry about its impact on their health.

Common Side Effects of Baclofen Abuse

Recovery Resource Center provides information on the best evidence-based treatment centers for people struggling with addiction and mental health. 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. Also, the dose needed when treating alcohol addiction is significantly low compared to other drugs such as diazepam or other benzodiazepines. Other medications used for anxiety treatment may require increasing amounts to continue building tolerance and might become a problem in the long run. If you suddenly stop taking baclofen, your muscle spasms may get worse.

Baclofen Addiction Treatment Levels of Care

Always remember to check expiration dates and get rid of old prescriptions safely. Instead, get in touch with pharmacies that have disposal programs or follow local guidelines for safe baclofen addictive medication disposal. Increasing the release of brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that block electrical activity in the brain and spinal cord.

When it is taken in extremely high doses, baclofen can cause drowsiness and a feeling of being high. Generally, enrolling in a residential treatment facility requires a commitment of 21 days or more. Most often, residential treatment is suggested as a transitional option after an inpatient program. However, you might go straight to residential treatment if your care team decides that intensive inpatient care isn’t necessary. One of the biggest risks of baclofen is that it’s easy to overdose on it. People in the withdrawal process and relapse are at a higher risk of overdose.

Medical detox for baclofen addiction may also greatly reduce the risk of relapse because it offers a safe and supportive environment that is drug-free. Attempting to quit baclofen cold turkey is difficult without support and may also be very uncomfortable. However, with a baclofen detox program, you are much more likely to succeed.

Baclofen Mixed with Other Drugs

Read our guide to find out more about baclofen pumps and intrathecal baclofen treatment. If treatment for baclofen overdoses is administered immediately then full recovery is often possible within 72 hours. Despite its muscle relaxant properties and interaction with the CNS, the DEA does not consider baclofen to have any potential for abuse.

So, baclofen may block the ability of alcohol to increase the GABA in brain cells. Spinal cord injuries can cause similar damage as MS, but the damage is traumatic rather than from the immune system. Traumatic injuries may crush or tear parts of the spinal cord, like in a car accident.