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Baclofen and ethanol ingestion: a case report.
1Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73126-0307, USA.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|December 14, 1999
Summary
Baclofen overdose can rapidly cause coma and respiratory depression, especially when combined with ethanol. Prompt airway management and respiratory support are crucial for patient recovery.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Skeletal muscle relaxant ingestions are rising in the US.
- Baclofen is a commonly prescribed muscle relaxant.
- Fatalities from muscle relaxant overdose are rare but serious.
Observation:
- A 30-year-old woman ingested 300 mg of baclofen and ethanol.
- She initially ambulated into the Emergency Department (ED).
- Within 30 minutes of arrival, her Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) dropped to 3.
Findings:
- Rapid onset of coma occurred after baclofen and ethanol ingestion.
- Mechanical ventilation was required for 36 hours.
- Neurologic status returned to baseline after supportive care.
Implications:
- Co-ingestion of ethanol significantly exacerbates baclofen-induced respiratory depression.
- Maintaining airway patency and respiratory support is critical in managing baclofen overdose.
- This case highlights the potential for rapid, severe neurologic compromise in baclofen overdose.