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The Use of Baclofen in Treatment of Spasticity in Multiple Sclerosis

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 September 2015

G.M. Sawa  and
D.W. Paty
G.M. Sawa
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, University Hospital, London, Ontario
D.W. Paty*
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, University Hospital, London, Ontario
*
Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, University Hospital, 339 Windermere Rd., London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5A5
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Baclofen was used in a double-blind crossover placebo-controlled trial to treat spasticity in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). While on Baclofen, patients obtained a significant (p<0.001) reduction in spasticity compared to controls. The drug was particularly effective in alleviating flexor and extensors spasms, as well as their associated pain. Side effects were common in this study, but were usually well tolerated by the patients. The commonest side effects were sedation, nausea and vomiting. There were no changes in hepatic, renal, or hematological function in any patients. Increased weakness due to loss of spasticity for support was also a fairly common complaint. The drug seems best indicated in patients in whom spasticity is not required for support or other activities of daily living. Careful monitoring of the patient is essential for effective use of this drug.

Type
Research Article
Information
Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences , Volume 6 , Issue 3 , August 1979 , pp. 351 - 354
Copyright
Copyright © Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation 1979

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