Baclofen: a clear, practical guide

If a doctor mentioned baclofen and you want to know the basics fast, this page gives the facts you need. Baclofen is a prescription muscle relaxant used mainly for spasticity from multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury. It can help reduce stiffness and painful muscle spasms so you can move and sleep better.

How baclofen works and common uses

Baclofen works on GABA-B receptors in the spinal cord to calm overactive nerves. That action lowers muscle tone and stops spasms. Doctors most often prescribe it for MS-related spasticity, spinal cord problems, or severe muscle tightness after brain injury. Some clinicians also use it off-label for alcohol dependence — clinical trials show mixed results, so your doctor will weigh benefits and risks carefully.

Dosage, side effects, and safety tips

Typical starting dose is 5 mg three times a day. Your doctor may raise the dose slowly every few days (for example, adding 5–10 mg per dose) until spasm control is reached. Many people take between 30–80 mg per day; higher doses exist but need close medical supervision. If you have kidney problems, dosage must be adjusted, since baclofen leaves the body through the kidneys.

Common side effects: drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, dry mouth, and nausea. These usually improve after a few days to weeks. Serious problems can happen: confusion, trouble breathing, low blood pressure, or hallucinations — get urgent care if those occur. Don’t drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how baclofen affects you.

Never stop baclofen suddenly. Abrupt withdrawal can cause rebound spasticity, agitation, hallucinations, or seizures. If you need to stop, your doctor will recommend a gradual taper over days to weeks depending on dose and how long you’ve taken it.

Watch out for interactions. Combining baclofen with alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, or other central nervous system depressants raises the risk of extreme drowsiness or breathing problems. Tell your provider about all medicines and supplements you use.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: data are limited. Use only if the expected benefit justifies the potential risk to the baby, and discuss alternatives with your clinician.

Buying baclofen online: you usually need a valid prescription. Avoid pharmacies that sell without one. Tips for safe buying: pick pharmacies with a verifiable license and pharmacist contact, check for secure site (https), and be cautious of very low prices or suppliers that ship from multiple countries. If you see signs of counterfeit pills (different color, odd taste, or no imprint), stop taking them and consult a pharmacist or doctor.

If you have questions about starting or stopping baclofen, side effects you’re worried about, or how it fits with other medicines, ask your prescribing clinician. A short call or visit can prevent problems and make sure the medication actually helps you live better.