Facial Neuralgia Resources: Baclofen

"The Scream" by Edvard Munch

Together, we can make
a difference.

facial-neuralgia.org

Last Updated 09/15/06

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TREATMENTS
	Drugs
	Surgical
	Alternative

BACLOFEN
Drug Treatments for Facial Neuralgias

Disclaimer.

Formal information

Sold under tradename Lioresal. An anti-spasticity drug.

The primary use of baclofen is to reduce spasticity. As such, it appears to be most often used for TN related to MS (multiple sclerosis). However, since the drug affects the nervous system as well as the muscle system, it may also help TN symptoms. In this case, it usually seems to be prescribed together with an anticonvulsant.

Side effects tend to include drowsiness and general exhaustion. However, these vary individually.

Monograph: Baclofen.

Informal information

Positive experiences

[TN with MS]: "Baclofen, in conjunction with Tegretol keeps it under control except that every few months a flare-up occurs and another set of infusions of prednisone [MS medication] is necessary......With the combination of Tegretol and Baclofen I have had to adjust my meetings and schedule to allow for naps and tiredness and not meeting for long periods of time." - Prince.
: "Before I finally had surgery, I found a combination of 75mg amitriptyline and 20mg baclofen very effective -- with much fewer side effects than tegretol." Source:Anonymous.
: "I am on 800mg tegretol and 80mg baclofen...... If I increase my dosage any more, I experience double vision and extreme tiredness." - Anonymous.; "Baclofen makes me too groggy to work." - Anonymous.
: "I took baclofen for..oh lets see..I think about 3 months. Did nothing..no side effects, just nothing." - Anonymous.

Please e-mail comments / questions for this section of FNR to
editors@facial-neuralgia.org

Formal information

Informal information

Positive experiences

Negative experiences

Mixed experiences