Baclodol
Generic Name
Baclofen
Manufacturer
Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| baclodol 10 mg tablet | ৳ 8.03 | ৳ 80.33 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Baclofen is a muscle relaxant used to treat muscle spasms, cramping, and tightness caused by conditions such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, or other neurological disorders.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose: 5 mg three times daily. Gradually increase by 5 mg increments every 3 days to a maximum of 20 mg three times daily (total 60 mg/day). Maximum recommended dose is 80 mg/day.
Elderly
Lower starting dose and slower titration recommended due to increased sensitivity and potential for adverse effects. Initial dose 5 mg twice daily.
Renal_impairment
Dose should be reduced significantly, and closely monitored. For severe renal impairment, consider 5 mg daily or every other day.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably with meals or milk to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Do not discontinue abruptly.
Mechanism of Action
Baclofen acts as an agonist at GABA-B receptors, leading to hyperpolarization of neurons and reduced release of excitatory neurotransmitters. This inhibits both monosynaptic and polysynaptic reflexes in the spinal cord, thereby reducing muscle spasticity.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action for oral dose is typically within 0.5-1.5 hours.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys (about 70-80% within 72 hours); a small amount is eliminated via feces.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life ranges from 2.5 to 4 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and extensively absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; peak plasma concentrations reached within 0.5-1.5 hours.
Metabolism
Approximately 5-15% of the dose is metabolized in the liver; the major metabolite is beta-(p-chlorophenyl)-gamma-hydroxybutyric acid.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Baclofen or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with epilepsy (use with caution and close monitoring).
Drug Interactions
Antihypertensives
May increase hypotensive effects; monitor blood pressure.
Levodopa/Carbidopa
Possible exacerbation of adverse effects like confusion, hallucinations.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
May enhance hypotensive effects.
CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids)
Increased CNS depression (drowsiness, sedation, respiratory depression).
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include severe drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, muscle hypotonia, respiratory depression, seizures, and coma. Management involves supportive care, gastric lavage (if recent), and maintaining airway patency.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. Baclofen is excreted into breast milk; use with caution during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Baclofen or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with epilepsy (use with caution and close monitoring).
Drug Interactions
Antihypertensives
May increase hypotensive effects; monitor blood pressure.
Levodopa/Carbidopa
Possible exacerbation of adverse effects like confusion, hallucinations.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
May enhance hypotensive effects.
CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids)
Increased CNS depression (drowsiness, sedation, respiratory depression).
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include severe drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, muscle hypotonia, respiratory depression, seizures, and coma. Management involves supportive care, gastric lavage (if recent), and maintaining airway patency.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. Baclofen is excreted into breast milk; use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent (Generic available)
Clinical Trials
Baclofen has been extensively studied in clinical trials for spasticity across various neurological conditions, demonstrating efficacy in reducing muscle tone and spasm frequency.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor renal function (creatinine clearance) in patients with impaired kidney function.
- Periodically monitor liver function tests, especially in patients with pre-existing hepatic disease.
Doctor Notes
- Start with a low dose and titrate slowly to minimize CNS adverse effects.
- Caution in elderly patients and those with renal impairment; dose reduction is often necessary.
- Emphasize the importance of gradual withdrawal to patients to prevent severe rebound spasticity and withdrawal symptoms.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking Baclofen abruptly, as it can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms.
- Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants while on this medication.
- Report any severe side effects like hallucinations, seizures, or severe weakness to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Baclofen may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating hazardous machinery until they are reasonably certain that Baclofen does not adversely affect their ability to engage in such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you, as it can cause drowsiness and dizziness.
- Engage in physical therapy as recommended to maximize the benefits of muscle relaxation.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.