Baclofen
About
Baclofen is a muscle relaxant. It's used to relieve muscle spasms, cramping or tightness caused by conditions such as: cerebral palsy meningitis motor neurone disease multiple sclerosis conditions affecting your brain, spinal cord and nervous system Baclofen is available on prescription. It comes as tablets or a liquid that you swallow. If baclofen tablets or liquid do not work well for you or your child, you may be prescribed a baclofen injection. This will be given by a specialist doctor in hospital. Baclofen can also be given through a pump that is fitted under the skin. Baclofen reduces pain and discomfort caused by muscle spasms. The tablets and liquid start to work after 1 hour after taking it. However, it might take a few days before you find the right dose to control your symptoms. Common side effects include feeling sleepy and feeling sick (nausea). If your doctor decides to stop your treatment, your dose will be reduced gradually over 1 to 2 weeks. It's best not to drink alcohol while you are taking baclofen until you know how it affects you. There's a risk alcohol may increase drowsy side effects and make you very sleepy. Page last reviewed: 25 February 2022 Next review due: 25 February 2025
Key facts
Baclofen reduces pain and discomfort caused by muscle spasms.
The tablets and liquid start to work after 1 hour after taking it. However, it might take a few days before you find the right dose to control your symptoms.
Common side effects include feeling sleepy and feeling sick (nausea).
If your doctor decides to stop your treatment, your dose will be reduced gradually over 1 to 2 weeks.
It's best not to drink alcohol while you are taking baclofen until you know how it affects you. There's a risk alcohol may increase drowsy side effects and make you very sleepy.