Baclofen

From Freepedia

Image:Baclofen.png Baclofen
4-amino-3-(4-chlorophenyl)- butanoic acid
CAS number 1134-47-0	ATC code M03BX01
Chemical formula	C10H12ClNO2
Molecular weight	213.663
Bioavailability	?
Metabolism	?
Elimination half-life	?
Excretion	?
Pregnancy category	?
Legal status	?
Routes of administration	Oral, intrathecal

Baclofen (brand names Kemstro® and Lioresal®) is a derivative of gamma-aminobutyric acid, and is an agonist specific to GABA_B receptors. It is used for the treatment of spastic movement, especially in instances of spinal cord injury and in multiple sclerosis. Its beneficial effects result from actions at spinal and supraspinal sites. Baclofen can also be used to treat hiccups.

Contents 1 Description of compound 2 Routes of administration 3 Overdose 4 Underdose 5 References

Description of compound

Baclofen is a white to off-white, odorless or practically odorless crystalline powder, with a molecular weight of 213.66. It is slightly soluble in water, very slightly soluble in methanol, and insoluble in chloroform.

Routes of administration

Baclofen can be administered either orally or intrathecally (directly into the spinal fluid). Intrathecal administration is often indicated in spasticity patients, as very little of the oral dose actually reaches the spinal fluid.

Overdose

Symptoms of a baclofen overdose include vomiting, weakness, drowsiness, slow breathing, seizures, unusual pupil size, and coma.

Underdose

Symptoms of baclofen underdose (via intrathecal delivery) include itching, hypotension, paresthesias, fever, and altered mental state.

References

• Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy Cleveland Clinic Information Center. 15 June 2001.