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Baclofen
Uses:
Baclofen relaxes muscles and relieves pain and discomfort due to certain
nerve disorders.
How to Take:
Baclofen is taken by mouth, usually three times daily or as directed by
your doctor. Dosage is based on your condition and response. Do not increase
your dose or take it more often than prescribed. Do not suddenly stop
taking Baclofen without your doctor's approval. It may take 1 to 2 months
for full benefit to be noticed.
Side Effects:
May cause drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, confusion, headache, nausea,
constipation or diarrhea. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your
doctor. Unlikely to occur but report promptly: mental/mood changes, seizures,
vision changes, muscle stiffness, stomach pain, vomiting, trouble breathing,
painful urination, change in urine amount. Very unlikely but report promptly:
impotence, chest pain, black stools, fainting, unsteadiness. If you notice
other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: diabetes, kidney
problems, seizures, mental/emotional problems, brain disorders (e.g.,
stroke), ulcers, allergies (especially drug allergies). Because Baclofen
may cause dizziness or drowsiness, use caution when driving or performing
tasks that require alertness. Limit alcohol consumption as it may increase
the drowsiness or dizziness effects of Baclofen. Elderly patients may
be more sensitive to the effects of this drug. Use cautiously. Baclofen
should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks
and benefits with your doctor. Baclofen is excreted into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions:
Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter or prescription medication you
may use, including: sedatives, tranquilizers, narcotic pain relievers,
sleeping pills, seizure medication, muscle relaxants, psychiatric medications,
certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Check the labels on nonprescription
medicines carefully as they may contain ingredients that can add to the
drowsiness effect of Baclofen. Baclofen may affect certain blood tests.
Make sure you inform all your healthcare providers you use Baclofen. Do
not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or
emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include vomiting,
muscle weakness, drowsiness, slow breathing, and seizures.
Notes:
Do not allow anyone else to use Baclofen.
Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered if it is within an hour
or so. If you do not remember until later, skip the missed dose and resume
your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the doses.
Storage:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and
30 degrees C) away from moisture and heat. Do not store in the bathroom.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other
healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the
use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult
your healthcare professional before taking the product.
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